Whole house surge protector

There are many external factors that influence electrical fluctuations and can contribute to power surges when power is restored. All these factors can be due to natural (like a lightning strike) causes or manual operations. So, it is necessary to protect the whole house surge protector.

The devices to avoid these problems are affordable and above all functional, if compared to the cost of repairing any of the damaged elements.

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Do whole house surge protectors really work?

Yes, they can be effective at protecting your home’s electrical system and devices from power surges.

A power surge is a sudden increase in voltage that can damage or destroy electronics and appliances in your home. While power strips with surge protection can provide some level of protection for individual devices, they can help protect your entire electrical system.

These are installed near your home’s electrical panel, and they work by diverting excess voltage from power surges away from your home’s wiring and into the ground. This helps protect your home’s electrical system, including appliances and electronics, from damage.

It’s important to note that even with a whole house surge protector in place, it’s still possible for some damage to occur during a severe power surge. However, having a whole house surge protector can greatly reduce the risk of damage and provide peace of mind. It’s also a good idea to pair them with surge protectors for individual devices to provide additional protection.

Can I install a whole house surge protector myself?

While it’s possible for a homeowner to install it, it’s generally recommended that you hire a licensed electrician to do the installation. This is because the installation process involves working with your home’s electrical panel, which can be dangerous and requires specialized knowledge and equipment.

Additionally, installation requirements can vary depending on the specific model of surge protector you’re installing and the electrical system in your home. A licensed electrician will have the expertise to ensure that the installation is done correctly and in compliance with local codes and regulations.

If you decide to install it yourself, it’s important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take the necessary safety precautions. Make sure to turn off the main power to your home before working on the electrical panel, and use proper tools and equipment to ensure a safe installation.

What size of surge protector do I need for the whole house?

The size or capacity is typically measured in terms of its “surge current rating,” which is the amount of electrical current that the surge protector can safely divert during a power surge. The surge current rating that you need depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the type of electrical service you have, and the number and type of appliances and electronics in your home.

In general, a whole-house surge protector rated at least 40,000 amps should be sufficient for most homes. This capacity is only an approximation as the specific capacity will depend on the individual characteristics of your home’s electrical system.

To ensure that you choose the right size whole house surge protector for your home, it’s a good idea to consult with a licensed electrician. They can assess your home’s electrical system and recommend the appropriate surge protector based on your specific needs

How often should a whole house surge protector be replaced?

Their lifespan varies depending on several factors, including the quality of the device, the frequency and severity of power surges in your area, and the overall condition of your home’s electrical system.

They typically have a lifespan of around 10 years. However, some models may last longer or shorter depending on the factors mentioned above.

To ensure that your house surge protection is providing adequate protection, having it inspected regularly by a licensed electrician is a good idea. They can check the device for signs of wear and tear and ensure that it’s still functioning properly. Additionally, suppose you experience a significant power surge. In that case, it’s a good idea to have your surge protector inspected as soon as possible to ensure that it’s still functioning properly and that no damage has been done to your home’s electrical system.

If your surge protector is approaching the end of its lifespan or is showing signs of wear and tear, it’s generally a good idea to replace it. This will help ensure that your home’s electrical system and devices are adequately protected from power surges

The advantages of owning a whole-house surge protector

This is a product that is undoubtedly undervalued. It is very common that doubts arise regarding its installation or its benefit. So here we tell you a little more about the benefits and advantages that bring the installation of a surge protector for the whole house.

• An SPD protects not only your sensitive electronic devices but also your HVAC system and other important electrical appliances. This means saving thousands of dollars in repairs or replacements, especially in areas where thunderstorms are frequent.
• Homeowner’s insurance does not cover damage caused by power surges.
• Decrease in the useful life of electrical appliances.

Types of surge protectors

They are commonly referred to as “surge protectors” but their technical name is “surge protective devices” (SPD). These are classified depending on whether they are to protect individual elements from damage caused by voltage spikes or to protect against surges for the whole house. There is a total of three types of SPD.

Type 1

They offer the best protection. Both against external sources and internal surges. Low power surges may pass through but are generally not destructive. They are installed where the utility supply joins the main circuit breaker box, called the “power lines”. This means that a stabilized current flows inside the house.

Type 2

The most popular of all SPDs, they are installed inside the main circuit breaker panel. It can protect an individual circuit or all circuits in an electrical room. Some offer similar levels of protection to Type 1.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests that a Type 1 and a Type 2 device be installed in series.

Type 3

Best known as “strip surge protectors”. They are inexpensive, plug into any outlet, and usually have four to six additional outlets. A convenient way to protect low-power appliances such as computers, televisions, and video game consoles, among other sensitive electronics.

They should not be confused with normal power strip surge protectors; because many models have the same appearance but do not have a surge protection element.

You have no choice but to buy one and install it in your home. It has only benefits in addition to regulating the electricity inside your home. It will save you a lot of money in repairs, replacements, and electricity bills.

Written by Vanessa Gallanti. March 23, 2023

Enthusiast about planning, project management, construction materials and technology, and construction. A civil engineer from Los Andes University and a content writer for Kukun.