By Evan Smalling
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August 14, 2024
Protect Your Home and Electronics with a Whole Home Surge Protector Power surges are an unfortunate reality of modern life. These sudden spikes in voltage can wreak havoc on your electronics, causing damage that can be costly to repair or replace. While surge protectors for individual devices are common, a whole home surge protector offers comprehensive protection for your entire household. What is a Whole Home Surge Protector? A whole home surge protector is a device installed in your electrical panel to shield your entire home from power surges. Unlike plug-in surge protectors, which protect only the devices plugged into them, a whole home protector safeguards everything connected to your electrical system, including major appliances, HVAC systems, and even your home's wiring. How Does it Work? When a power surge occurs, the excess electrical energy is diverted to the surge protector's grounding system, protecting your home's sensitive electronics. Think of it as a lightning rod for your electrical system. Benefits of a Whole Home Surge Protector Comprehensive Protection: Safeguards all electrical devices in your home. Peace of Mind: Protects your valuable investments from costly damage. Increased Appliance Lifespan: Reduces the risk of premature equipment failure. Potential Insurance Savings: Some insurance companies offer discounts for homes with surge protection. Choosing the Right Surge Protector When selecting a whole home surge protector, consider the following factors: Clamping Voltage: This measures the maximum voltage allowed before the protector activates. Lower clamping voltage offers better protection. Surge Current Capacity: This indicates the amount of surge energy the protector can handle. Higher capacity is generally better. Certification: Look for products certified by reputable organizations like UL. Installation Installing a whole home surge protector is typically a job for a qualified electrician. They can ensure proper installation and grounding for optimal protection. Maintenance While whole home surge protectors are low-maintenance, it's essential to check the device regularly for signs of damage. Some models include indicators that show when the protector has absorbed a significant surge and needs replacement. Protecting your home from power surges is an investment in its longevity and the safety of your valuable electronics. A whole home surge protector provides essential protection and peace of mind.