Surge Protection
Power surges happen without warning. Though usually not serious, they can be inconvenient. Surges typically occur when you’re running too many appliances simultaneously or plugging multiple devices into a single outlet. Some surges are caused by external electrical issues beyond your control, such as utility work being done near your home, downed power lines, or lightning.
Surges may simply require resetting a circuit breaker, but in more serious cases—such as a lightning strike—they can damage your electronics like TVs and computers. Having the right whole-house surge protection is the first step to safeguarding your home and valuables from surge damage.
What Are Electrical Power Surges?
You’ve likely experienced a power surge before. A surge happens when there’s a sudden spike in electrical current. It may last just a few seconds, but the damage can be long-lasting and expensive to repair.
- Faulty Appliances – Older or seldom-used devices that no longer meet electrical safety standards.
- Bad or Faulty Wiring – Outdated or poorly installed wiring that isn’t up to code or has been damaged.
- Tripped Circuit Breakers – Often caused by power surges, commonly referred to as ‘blown fuses’.
- Downed Power Lines – Fallen or damaged utility lines can send surges into your system, affecting multiple homes.
- Lightning Strikes – Lightning entering your home’s electrical system can cause serious and widespread damage.
Why Are Power Surges Dangerous?
Most power surges are minor and just an inconvenience—like flickering lights or brief outages. But more serious surges can result in appliance damage or even fires.
Power surges may also point to bigger electrical problems that could pose risks such as electrocution or fire hazards. If you’re experiencing frequent surges, consult a licensed electrician. They can identify the source of the issue and recommend repairs to restore the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.
Why Does My Home Need Surge Protection?
Many homeowners don’t recognize the threat of power surges until costly damage occurs. Modern homes are filled with devices and appliances—ovens, vacuums, smart devices—that need consistent power. A surge from either inside or outside your home can damage these items and lead to expensive repairs or replacements.
With extreme weather becoming more common, lightning strikes and downed power lines are increasing the risk of external surges.
If lightning hits your home, it can travel through your electrical system and destroy everything connected to it.
Whole-home surge protection prepares your home for these events and keeps your belongings safe.
Whole House Surge Protection
Surge protection is a simple, affordable way to defend your home from electrical damage. There are two primary strategies for whole-home protection:
- Primary Protection – Installed at your main electrical panel, this type of surge protector guards the entire house.
- Secondary Protection – Surge protectors plugged into outlets protect individual devices and electronics like TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances.
Whole-house surge protectors typically last around three years and should be checked and replaced regularly to maintain protection.
Electrical Panel Surge Protector
The most critical form of surge protection is at the electrical panel—this is known as primary protection. It shields high-power appliances such as HVAC systems, stoves, dryers, washers, dishwashers, computers, and refrigerators from surges.
JVS General Contractors can help you choose the best panel surge protection system for your specific needs. Based on your home’s electrical load and your device usage, a licensed electrician can install the right protection to ensure long-term safety.
Reminder: Never open or modify your electrical panel without the help of a qualified expert.
Contact Us
All our electricians at JVS General Contractors are licensed, certified, and well-equipped to handle whatever task is at hand. Choose an electrical company with a track record of success. Our renovation electricians care about your safety and will go to great lengths to ensure that the wiring in your household is safe and intact.
Need electrical service? Get in touch with our team today!