Power surges—sudden increases in voltage that can occur due to various reasons, including lightning strikes, power outages, and faulty wiring—can wreak havoc on your home’s electrical system. They can damage appliances, electronics, and even lead to electrical fires.

Understanding the importance of surge protectors is vital for ensuring the safety and longevity of your electrical devices. In this blog post, we’ll explore surge protectors, the different types available, the common causes of power surges, and why having a surge protection system installed by a professional electrician is essential for your home.

What Are Surge Protectors?

Surge protectors are devices designed to shield your electronic equipment from power surges. They work by diverting excess voltage away from your devices, thereby preventing damage. A surge protector acts as a gatekeeper for the electricity flowing into your appliances, ensuring that only a safe amount reaches them.

There are two primary types of surge protectors:

• Plug-in Surge Protectors: These are the most common type, resembling power strips but with added surge protection features. They can be plugged directly into an outlet and provide protection for multiple devices.

• Whole-House Surge Protectors: These systems are installed directly into your home’s electrical panel and protect all the devices and appliances connected to your electrical system. They provide a higher level of protection and are especially beneficial for homes with numerous electronic devices or systems, such as HVAC units and home theaters.

Common Causes of Power Surges

Understanding the causes of power surges can help you appreciate the importance of surge protectors. Some common causes include:

• Lightning Strikes: One of the most well-known causes of power surges, a lightning strike can send an enormous amount of electricity into your home’s electrical system. A single lightning strike can create a surge of up to 1 million volts, easily damaging unprotected appliances.

• Utility Company Issues: Sometimes, fluctuations in power from your utility company can cause surges. This can occur during times of high demand or when power is restored after an outage.

• Faulty Wiring: Deteriorating or poorly installed wiring can lead to surges. If your home’s wiring is outdated or compromised, it may not effectively handle the electrical load, leading to increased risks of surges.

• Appliance Cycling: Large appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and heaters, can create surges when they cycle on and off. The sudden demand for power can send a spike through your electrical system.

The Importance of Installing Surge Protectors

Many of us own expensive electronics like computers, televisions, and gaming consoles. Without surge protection, a single power surge can damage or destroy these devices, leading to costly replacements. Investing in surge protectors can help safeguard your electronics and appliances, prolonging their lifespan.

For those who rely on computers and electronic devices for work or personal use, power surges can lead to data loss and corruption. Using surge protectors can help protect not only your hardware but also your valuable data.

Power surges can also lead to electrical fires, posing a significant safety risk to your home and family. By installing surge protectors, you can reduce the risk of surges that could lead to overheating and fires, enhancing the overall safety of your electrical system.

Professional Installation for Maximum Protection

While plug-in surge protectors can provide a level of safety, whole-house surge protectors offer a more comprehensive solution. Installing a whole-house surge protector involves integrating the device into your home’s electrical panel, which should always be done by a licensed electrician.

Here’s why professional installation is crucial:

• Proper Assessment: A qualified electrician will assess your home’s electrical system, identify potential weaknesses, and recommend the best surge protection solution tailored to your needs.

• Compliance with Electrical Codes: Electrical work must comply with local codes and regulations. A professional will ensure that your surge protector installation meets all safety standards, reducing risks associated with DIY installations.

• Long-Term Reliability: When you have a surge protection system installed by a professional, you can trust that it’s set up correctly and will provide reliable protection for years to come.

Regular Maintenance and Testing

Once you have surge protectors installed, it’s important to conduct regular maintenance and testing to ensure they function correctly. Some plug-in surge protectors come with indicators that show their operational status, while whole-house systems should be periodically inspected by a licensed electrician.

Regular testing will help identify any potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring your home remains protected against power surges.

Thomas Edison Electric Can Install Whole-House Surge Protectors

If you’re considering surge protector installation in Philadelphia, trust Thomas Edison Electric to provide expert guidance and installation services. Our licensed electricians can help you choose the right surge protection solution for your home and ensure it’s installed safely and effectively. Don’t wait until a power surge damages your devices—contact us today to schedule an inspection or installation.