Between 60% and 80% of all power surges that result in damage originate within the home. Internal surges due to issues like large appliance cycling can cause devastating electrical damage. Here are the top expert recommendations to protect against them.
Maintain Your Electrical System
Schedule a comprehensive electrical inspection at least every few years. Upgrade your home to modern standards, such as three-prong outlets and GFCI protection, as needed.
Install Whole-House Surge Protection
As of the 2020 edition, the National Electrical Code requires integrated surge protection for all newly built homes. If your house was built before 2020, you can have an electrician upgrade your electrical system with a whole-house surge protection device (SPD). Panel-side SPDs protect electrical systems from internal surges, such as from air conditioners cycling on, and external surges, such as from indirect lightning strikes.
Use High-Quality, UL-Listed Surge Protectors
Even with whole-house surge protection, you should protect your devices locally through high-quality surge protectors. Choose surge protectors that have either UL or ETL certification and a high enough joule rating for the application. While 1,000 is enough for small appliances, you’ll need 2,000 or even higher for high-end computers and televisions.
Avoid Overloading Surge Protectors
Don’t use power strips to overcome a lack of outlet access. Never daisy-chain power strips or use them with extension cords. You also shouldn’t plug high-draw appliances, such as air conditioners and space heaters, into power strips.
Upgrade to Smart Outlets and Plugs
All outlets in a modern home should have three-prong access, along with code-compliant GFCI and/or AFCI protection. Smart outlets can help protect against surges and phantom loads. Smart plugs let you upgrade standard outlets with smart features.
Protect Sensitive Electronics With UPS
Any irregular electrical flow can damage sensitive electronic equipment. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) works as a surge protector. A UPS also helps to protect against interruptions and power irregularities, such as ones caused by indirect lightning strikes, that a standard surge protector cannot.
Regularly Inspect Your Surge Protection
Schedule an annual inspection for your whole-house SPDs. Whenever there’s an activation or an SPD warning light, schedule an inspection. Proactively replace all your local surge protectors every three to five years or when you notice signs of wear. Upgrade all outlets, switches, dimmers, and light receptacles after 10 years of use.
Surges and other power quality issues cost homeowners and businesses tens of billions annually. Through proper surge protection, you can protect your household from these costs and inconveniences. If you live in Boise, ID or a surrounding area and need surge protection services, make your first call to Sublime Electric.