Electrical surges are sudden increases in voltage that can wreak havoc on your home’s electrical system and the electronic devices connected to it. These surges can result from various sources, including lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, and even appliances turning on and off. While they may last only a fraction of a second, the damage they cause can be extensive and costly.
Understanding Electrical Surges
Electrical surges, also known as power surges or voltage spikes, occur when the voltage in your electrical system rises above the normal level for a brief period. They can enter your home through utility lines or even within your home due to the operation of high-powered appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators.
Risks of Electrical Surges
The risks associated with electrical surges are numerous and can affect both your home’s electrical system and the electronic devices connected to it. Some of the risks include:
- Appliance Damage: Surges can damage or destroy electronic appliances, computers, televisions, and other valuable devices.
- Shortened Lifespan: Even if a surge doesn’t immediately damage your devices, it can shorten their lifespan, leading to more frequent replacements.
- Data Loss: Surges can corrupt data on computers and other storage devices, leading to data loss that can be irreplaceable.
- Fire Hazard: In extreme cases, surges can lead to electrical fires, posing a significant risk to your home and safety.
- Financial Impact: The financial cost of replacing damaged devices and repairing your electrical system can be substantial.
Protection Against Electrical Surges
Device Level Surge Protector
The good news is that you can protect your home and electronics from the damaging effects of electrical surges through surge protection devices (SPDs). Surge protectors, also known as surge suppressors, are designed to divert excess voltage away from your devices and safely dissipate it into the ground.
There are various types of surge protectors available, including:
- Power Strips with Surge Protection: These are convenient for protecting individual devices like computers and entertainment systems.
- Whole-House Surge Protectors: Installed at your electrical panel, these protect your entire home from surges, safeguarding all devices and appliances.
- Outlet Surge Protectors: These are installed directly into electrical outlets and are ideal for protecting devices in specific locations.
Remember that surges can follow not only power lines but also cable TV, telephone, and network lines. It’s essential to protect all entry points for electrical surges to ensure comprehensive surge protection.
Benefits of Surge Protection:
Whole House Panel and Equipment Surge Protector
Investing in surge protection offers several important benefits:
- Extended Lifespan: Surge protectors help your electronic devices and appliances last longer, saving you money on replacements.
- Cost Savings: Preventing surge-related damage can result in significant cost savings over time.
- Enhanced Safety: Surge protection reduces the risk of electrical fires and ensures the safety of your home.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your valuable electronics are protected provides peace of mind for you and your family.
Choosing the Right Surge Protection:
Selecting the right surge protector is essential to ensure adequate protection. Factors to consider include the device’s energy rating, response time, and the number of protected outlets. When in doubt, it’s advisable to consult with an electrical professional to determine the best surge protection solution for your needs.
Whole-House Surge Protection:
Generator Control Circuit Surge Protector
For comprehensive protection, whole-house surge protectors are an excellent choice. They safeguard your entire home from electrical surges, ensuring that every device and appliance is shielded against potential damage. We also carry a line of surge protectors for generator control wiring.
DIY vs. Professional Installation:
While some surge protectors can be installed by homeowners as a DIY project, it’s often recommended to seek professional installation, especially for whole-house surge protection systems. Professionals can ensure that the installation is done correctly and that your surge protection devices are properly maintained.
Conclusion:
In an age where our lives are increasingly reliant on electronic devices, surge protection is not just a luxury but a necessity. Investing in surge protection devices can save you from costly replacements, protect your valuable data, and, most importantly, keep your home and family safe. Remember that surges can follow not only power lines but also cable TV, telephone, and network lines, making it crucial to protect all entry points for electrical surges.
Don’t wait for a surge to cause irreversible damage—take proactive steps today to safeguard your home and electronics. At Benfield Electric, we specialize in electrical solutions that prioritize safety and efficiency. Contact us today to discuss your surge protection needs and ensure your home is protected from electrical surges on all fronts, including power, cable TV, telephone, and network lines.