You’re probably familiar with plug-in surge protectors. In fact, your computer is probably plugged into a power strip that has built-in surge protection right now. The same thing is probably true for your television, stereo system, and any other electrical device that’s susceptible to lightning strikes and other power surges. However, the plug-in variety of surge protectors isn’t always enough. In these cases, you need a whole-home surge protector.
Surge Protector Installation
This device is designed to be attached to your junction box to protect against any surge at all. Because of the danger involved in installing it, even with the power off, it’s best to have professionals do the job for you. The whole-home surge protector is installed between the junction box and the connections to all of your appliances and other devices.
How Does It Work?
Power surges are too powerful to completely eliminate. However, surge protectors make sure that your home can safely handle them when they happen. The idea is to divert the surge into a one-way grounding wire so that surges dissipate harmlessly into the ground. Through their operation, all electronics in your home that are plugged into the system get this protection.
What’s the Catch?
While whole-home surge protection is more expensive than power strips, it’s an investment in the overall safety of your home’s electrical system. Additionally, residual surges, particularly with lightning strikes, can sometimes get past the diverting circuits. For this reason, it’s generally a good idea also to have single surge protectors for some, or even all, of your devices. When it comes to essential items, such as your HVAC and other major appliances, having a secondary surge protector is generally considered a good idea.
How Long Do Such Devices Last?
In most cases, surge protectors of any kind last about five years. Modern models come with indicator lights that show when it’s time to replace them. It’s possible for them to last longer if they’ve never experienced a surge.
Weather Factors
Having a whole-home surge protector is extremely wise if not outright required for extreme weather conditions. In certain instances, it could be that your insurance company has a clause in your policy about such protectors if you live in stormy areas. It would be good for you to check with them to find out about any such requirements.
Your One-Stop Shop for Surge Protection
With more than 30 years of experience, we’ve been helping keep electrical systems running for years. Over those 30-plus years, we have developed the skills and knowledge to do the job right. Whenever you need anything regarding your home’s electrical system, and whole-home surge protection, call Town & Country Electric in Billings, MT to make an appointment today.
