Power surges are more common than you might think, and they can cause severe damage to your appliances and electronics. These unexpected spikes in electricity can fry circuits, ruin delicate components, and lead to costly repairs or replacements.
What Causes Power Surges?
Before you can protect your appliances, it helps to understand what causes power surges. These spikes in electricity can happen for various reasons, but the most common cause is lightning strikes. When lightning hits power lines, it can send a large surge of electricity through the electrical system, potentially damaging everything in its path.
Another cause of power surges is when large appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators switch on or off. These devices can create a sudden shift in electrical demand that causes a temporary spike in voltage. Even small, seemingly harmless events, like switching on a vacuum cleaner or plugging in a new appliance, can create a power surge.
Surge Protectors: First Line of Defense
These devices were created to absorb excess voltage and redirect it safely into the ground, preventing it from reaching your appliances. Surge protectors are classified into many forms, ranging from simple power strips to more complex whole-home surge protection systems. A simple surge protector plugged into the wall can do the job if you’re only concerned about a few important appliances, like your computer or television. However, if you want to protect everything in your home, it’s worth considering a whole-house surge protector that a professional can install.
Choosing the Right Surge Protector
Selecting the best surge protector means looking at a variety of factors. First, look at the joule rating, which indicates how much energy the surge protector can handle before it stops operating. The higher the joule rating, the better the protection. Look for surge protectors that are specifically rated for the equipment you’re protecting.
For instance, if you’re using it for electronics like computers, choose a model that offers a higher joule rating and features like noise filtration to protect your devices from surges and interference. You should also check for features like indicator lights, which show whether the surge protector is still working, and outlets that are spaced far enough apart to accommodate bulky plugs.
Power Strips Vs Surge Protectors
Choosing the right surge protector involves considering several factors. A power strip just gives you extra plugs to connect more things, but it doesn’t protect against power surges. A surge protector, however, is made to keep your electronics safe from big electrical spikes that could damage them.
If you’re trying to protect expensive electronics, like TVs, computers, or home theaters, it’s vital to use a surge protector, not just a regular power strip. Some power strips may even advertise surge protection, but it’s important to verify that they meet proper standards for protecting your devices.
What About My Large Appliances?
While surge protectors are great for smaller electronics, larger appliances, like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, may require additional precautions. These appliances often create their own surges when they start up or shut down. To protect them, consider installing surge protection devices directly into the circuit.
Ongoing Maintenance
Keeping the electrical system in your home in tip-top condition is one of the smartest ways to protect your appliances from power surges. A professional electrician can perform regular checks to spot problems like old wiring or damaged outlets that might increase the risk of surges. These inspections help you stay ahead of potential issues before they cause harm.
An electrician can also check your circuit breakers and grounding system to ensure everything is in working order. Keeping your system in good condition not only prevents surges but also helps avoid other electrical issues, such as short circuits or overheating. We offer preventative maintenance packages for homeowners who want to stay on top of their electrical needs.
Protect Your Home Today
At Plugz Electric in Forest Lake, MN, we’re all about helping you keep your home safe from electrical issues, including power surges. By using surge protectors and keeping your home’s electrical system in great shape, you can help prevent damage to your devices and appliances. In addition to surge protection, we offer ceiling fan installation, EV charging, electrical panel upgrades, and other electrical services. Contact our team at Plugz Electric today.
