Protecting Your Home From Power Surges

Fluctuating voltage can damage your home’s electrical system, appliances, and other devices, resulting in costly repairs. Fortunately, there are preventive measures you can take to help protect your home.

A power surge is a sudden increase in voltage. Lightning strikes and power grid failures are external sources; faulty wiring and electrical overload are common internal sources. High voltage surges cause immediate damage. Minor fluctuations can damage equipment over time.

Unplugging sensitive electronics and appliances during thunderstorms and severe weather conditions minimizes the risk of damage by creating a physical barrier against power surges. However, homeowners can only unplug some things and may not be home when a power surge occurs.

Installing surge protectors is one of the most effective ways to safeguard against power surges. There are two types: point-of-use and whole-house surge protectors. Point-of-use protectors are installed throughout the home and used to protect individual appliances or electronics. In contrast, whole-house protectors are installed at your electrical panel.

Surge Protectors vs Power Strips: Power strips add extra outlet space. Surge protectors defend against voltage spikes. Some surge protectors look like power strips. However, not all power strips offer surge protection.

Connecting multiple power strips or surge protectors in series is dangerous, can overload circuits, and increase the likelihood of damage. Never plug appliances like space heaters, refrigerators, microwaves, or toaster ovens into power strips or extension cords. Instead, connect these appliances to a wall outlet directly.

Ensuring your home’s electrical system is properly grounded is crucial for surge protection. In addition, faulty or outdated wiring, frayed power cords, and damaged receptacles increase the risk of surges and fires. Consult a licensed electrician to inspect your home and repair or upgrade wiring to meet current safety standards.

For critical and sensitive devices like medical equipment and computers, consider installing an uninterrupted power supply (UPS). A UPS ensures continuous power during short outages and provides computer users time to save their work and safely shut down during extended power interruptions.

Investing the time and money to protect your home against power surges can reduce potential repairs and offer peace of mind.