Why Surge Protection Matters: Safeguarding Your Devices and Appliances

Power surges can happen at any time, often without warning, causing potential damage to your home’s electronics and appliances. They can strike during a lightning storm, or even when devices like refrigerators or air conditioners start up, sending a spike of voltage through the system.

Without proper protection, this sudden burst of power can seriously harm your valuable electronics, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Surge protection is essential for safeguarding your home and your devices.

At TurnKey Electricals, we offer reliable surge protection solutions to keep your home’s electronics safe. Contact us today to learn more!

What Causes Power Surges?

Power surges occur when electrical voltage spikes above the usual 120 volts. Common causes include:

1. Lightning Strikes: Lightning can cause huge voltage spikes, damaging anything connected to the electrical grid.
2. Faulty Wiring: Old or poor-quality wiring can create unstable voltage, increasing the chance of surges.
3. Large Appliances: Appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners require large amounts of power to start. This can trigger surges when they cycle on or off.

These surges often go unnoticed but can cause lasting harm to electronics.

Impact on Electronics and Appliances

Surges can cause immediate damage or gradually weaken electronic components. Devices like computers, TVs, and home theater systems are especially vulnerable. Small surges, if frequent, can lead to shortened lifespans and eventual failure.

Surge protectors help by diverting excess voltage safely to the ground. While no protector offers 100% security, they greatly reduce risk and extend the life of your electronics.

How Surge Protectors Work

Surge protectors use components like Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) and gas discharge tubes to absorb and redirect excess voltage during a surge. The joule rating indicates how much energy a surge protector can handle before it wears out. A higher joule rating provides more protection, with models over 600 joules being ideal for most home devices.

Why Surge Protection is Important

Surge protection is necessary because power surges happen more often than most people realize. Many homes experience surges multiple times daily, often caused by appliances cycling on and off. Computers, gaming consoles, and home entertainment systems are especially at risk from these surges.

Many homeowners are unaware that up to 80% of surges occur within their home, not from outside sources like lightning. These surges often come from appliances and can gradually damage devices over time.

Risks to Home Appliances

Appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines are also at risk from power surges. Smaller fluctuations in power can lead to malfunction or breakdown. For instance, a refrigerator exposed to frequent surges may stop cooling properly, leading to costly repairs or replacement.

Financial Consequences of Power Surges

Replacing electronics due to surge damage can be expensive. A new TV, computer, or refrigerator can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Insurance may cover some costs, but it’s often slow and may not cover the full amount. Surge protection is a relatively inexpensive way to prevent this type of damage.

While surge protectors need replacing every 3-5 years, depending on use, this small investment can save you a lot in repair or replacement costs.

Whole-House Surge Protection

For the best protection, consider a whole-house surge protection system. This system is installed directly into your home’s electrical panel and protects all your appliances and electronics from major surges. Whole-house systems usually cost under $1,000 to install and can protect every device in your home.

Point-of-Use Surge Protectors

For individual devices, point-of-use surge protectors are a great option. These are plugged directly into wall outlets and protect electronics like computers, TVs, and home theater systems. Point-of-use surge protectors are inexpensive and easy to install.

Look for surge protectors with a high joule rating and features like multiple outlets or USB ports to protect more devices.

Signs Your Surge Protector Needs Replacing

Surge protectors don’t last forever. Over time, they absorb energy from power surges, eventually losing their effectiveness. Signs that a surge protector needs replacing include:

• Burn marks or smell: Scorched areas or a burning odor indicate failure.
• Strange sounds or lights: Flickering lights or unusual noises may signal problems.
• Frequent device issues: If your electronics often malfunction, it may be due to a failing surge protector.

How to Choose the Right Surge Protector

When buying a surge protector, consider these factors:

• Joule Rating: A higher rating means better protection.
• Clamping Voltage: Choose a protector with a clamping voltage below 400 volts.
• Warranty: Look for a protector with a warranty that covers connected devices.
• Outlet Count: Make sure the protector has enough outlets for all your devices.

Protect Your Home with Reliable Surge Protection

Surge protection is a simple, affordable way to safeguard your electronics and appliances. Whether you choose a whole-house system or point-of-use protectors, these devices provide critical protection.

By selecting the right surge protector and replacing it when necessary, you can extend the life of your devices and avoid costly repairs.

At TurnKey Electricals, we specialize in surge protection solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your home’s electronics and appliances from power surges.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—take steps to protect your home now!