Why You Need a Surge Protector For Your Home

Electrical surges can hit when you least expect it. They have the potential to damage all your electronic devices, and even possibly cause a fire. That’s why you need a surge protector; to protect your home and your devices from unexpected voltage spikes.

A surge protector acts as a buffer, absorbing only the excess voltage from lightning strikes, power surges and faulty wiring. By controlling the flow of electricity, surge protection devices prevent damage to expensive electronic equipment like computers, TVs and air conditioners.

Whether it’s a sudden spike from a power outage or a gradual voltage increase, surge protectors give you peace of mind and keep your devices safe so they last longer and perform better.

An electrical or power surge is a sudden increase in voltage sent to your home; one that can wreak havoc on valuable equipment like major appliances and other electronic devices. They can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• lightning strikes
• downed power lines
• routine power outages

When a lightning strike hits, for example, it sends a massive incoming voltage through the power lines and into your home’s electrical power points and power boards. But power surges don’t always come from outside the home. Internal sources, such as a large appliance suddenly turning on, can also cause sudden increases in voltage. Even smaller, lower voltage surges can wear out your devices over time.

Understanding how power surges occur can help you better understand why you need surge protection to protect your devices and your home.

Surge protectors are designed to protect your electronics and connected devices by acting as a safety net against excess voltage.

When a power surge occurs, a surge protection device redirects that sudden surge of excess energy to a grounding wire, and allows only the safe, normal voltage to reach your devices. At the heart of most surge protectors is a metal oxide varistor (MOV) which diverts only the excess voltage away from your equipment. The MOV kicks in when it detects a spike, clamping voltage to a safer level. This fast response time means your expensive devices and their internal components are protected from damage.

Many power surge protection devices also have indicator lights to show they’re working so you have peace of mind. By effectively managing power spikes to electrical outlets, surge protectors deliver maximum protection. It means your devices remain safe and last longer.

Choosing the right surge protector depends on your needs and the devices you want to protect. Here’s a quick rundown on your surge protection options:

• Plug-in surge protectors: Great for individual devices like TVs or computers. You simply plug them into any power outlet.
• Power strips with surge protection: For multiple plugs, a power strip with surge protection will handle all your devices at once.
• Whole-house surge protectors: Installed at your main electrical panel, they protect your whole home from sudden spikes caused by lightning strikes
• Smart surge protectors: They typically feature USB ports and auto shut-off capabilities, and are perfect for gadgets.

With so many options, you can find a surge protector that fits your needs and assures you of your home’s safety.

Using surge protectors effectively means your devices get the best possible surge protection.

If using a plug-in surge protector, plug it directly into your wall power point. Don’t use extension cords as they can diminish the effectiveness. Check the indicator light to make sure the surge protector is working. If the light is off it might be time to replace it.

Be sure to avoid overloading power points or your power board when connecting devices. During a severe lightning storm, unplug devices from the surge protector for extra safety. Place surge protectors in easily accessible locations so you can reset them after power outages.

By following these simple steps you can get optimal surge protection for your expensive devices, extend their life and reduce the risk of electrical fires.

If you’re experiencing frequent power surges or notice flickering lights, a licensed electrician can inspect for faulty wiring or issues with your power points. They can also recommend and install a whole-house surge protector which blocks excess voltage at the main panel. This is especially useful in areas prone to lightning storms or power surges from downed power lines.

A licensed electrician can also make sure grounding wires and other components are properly installed, giving you peace of mind and better protection for all your devices. Trust the experts for safety and long term solutions.

Stay Safe and Protect Your Home from Power Surges

Buying a surge protector is a simple but essential investment in protecting your home and devices from unexpected power surges. Whether it’s a lightning strike, a sudden voltage increase or everyday power spikes a surge protection device can prevent costly damage to your devices.

By understanding how surge protectors work and choosing the right one for your home, you can rest easy knowing your electrical appliances and other devices are safe. Don’t forget a licensed electrician can provide optimal protection for the whole house and fix any underlying electrical issues.

With the right surge protector in place, you’ll be safe and your devices will last longer no matter what the weather or power throws at them.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.