Surge protection is required for certain outlets in your home – like ones near your sinks. Our team always recommends surge protection for your entire home. The National Fire Protection Association also supports this recommendation. You know it’s recommended, but why is it so important?
What is a Power Surge?
Experts design your electrical outlets to handle a range of voltage. The range usually goes higher than the anticipated average for your electricity needs. If electricity surges, it rises above what your outlet can handle. Examples include:
- Power workers changing the grid
- Lightning strikes
- High-powered appliances turning on or off
Significant power surges cause immediate damage that can ruin appliances and electronics. Smaller surges cause incremental damage over time that you may not even be aware of.
The Difference Between Power Strips and Whole-House Surge Protection
Before whole-house surge protection was a standard, many homeowners turned to power strips. Instead of plugging major appliances and electronics directly into a wall outlet, they used power strips. This offers an added layer of protection against power surges but doesn’t provide complete protection. If lightning strikes your home, power strips may not protect your electronics and appliances.
Storms are obvious and it’s easier to temporarily unplug electronics and appliances. Other types of surges may happen without you even knowing. When you invest in whole-house surge protection, you prevent damage from all types of power surges. This is especially important for the small surges that cause damage slowly over time.
For example, if you live in the south your HVAC system runs more in the summer. If the unit turns on and off, small surges can occur. They can take years away from the life of your appliances without you ever knowing. Some experts estimate that small power surges can cost you up to 30% of an appliance’s standard life.
Understanding Whole-House Surge Protectors
This is not an add-on solution like a power strip. Instead, a licensed electrician builds whole-house surge protectors into your home’s electrical panel. It isn’t a DIY project you can complete on your own because of the risks associated with electrical work. A minor misstep can lead to electrical fires and permanent damage to your home. Once installed, this type of surge protector identifies voltage spikes. Then it moves the excess electricity away from your home and into the ground.
If your home is older than ten years, you may need additional electrical work. For example, if you have a fuse box and not an electrical panel, it needs replacing. It’s also possible for your breaker panel to be outdated.
Scheduling a Consultation for Surge Protection
No matter how big or small your project, our team can help. We’re the one-stop-shop for all your electrical needs. If you’re not sure whether you have whole-house surge protection, we can find out for you.
When you need a professional electrician in Franklin, TN, look no further than Covenant Heating and Cooling. Contact us today. We are “Dedicated to the Promise of Serving You!”