What Does a Surge Protector Do?

While lightning is a dramatic example, power surges can happen more often and through less obvious sources. The effects can be devastating, but we’re not helpless. A whole house surge protector can divert this excess voltage away from your property.

In this brief article brough to you by Mr. Electric, we explore the causes of power surges, their hidden costs, and how whole house surge protectors can guard your home. If you’d rather consult a certified electrician in Castle Hills, TX, then call Mr. Electric to schedule a face-to-face meeting.

The Threat of Power Surges

Electrical systems are designed to handle a standard voltage of about 120 volts in the U.S. When a surge occurs, the voltage skyrockets to thousands or even millions of volts. It should go without saying that this torrent of voltage will overwhelm your wiring and devices.

While lightning strikes are a well-known cause of surges, they’re not the only culprits. Other common sources include downed power lines and grid fluctuations such as load shifting or faulty transformers. Even appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators cycling on and off can create small but frequent surges

The Hidden Costs of Power Surges

Power surges are more than just a momentary inconvenience. The damage can include destroyed electronics, fried appliances, compromised wiring, and lost data. The financial impact can quickly add up. Replacing damaged electronics and appliances is costly to say the least, but the resulting issues in your home’s electrical system can be even more expensive to resolve.

The Technology Behind Surge Protectors

Whole house surge protectors are at the frontline in defending against power surges. Installed at your home’s main electrical panel, these devices intercept excess voltage before it can spread through your wiring and damage your equipment – but how does this technology work?