An electronic device plugged directly into an outlet can be susceptible to serious damage. But what if we told you there is a quick and easy way to protect your expensive TV, computers, and appliances? The solution is surge protectors.
A surge protector can help extend the lifespan of your electronics. They work to prevent a significant surge of electricity from traveling downstream to the devices plugged into the protector. Each surge protector unit absorbs the excess voltage into metal oxide varistors — which means the extra power won’t harm your devices, instead diverted safely to the ground wire and preventing your electronics from being zapped with too much voltage.
Lightning strikes, power outages, grid malfunctions, and several other electrical problems can cause spikes and ultimately put your devices (and your home) at risk. Not only is it easy and inexpensive to protect your electronics from surges and spikes with a surge protector, but it’s also essential.
How do Surge Protectors Work?
The devices you plug into the electrical sockets throughout your home rely on a consistent amount of voltage. A surge protector steps in when the voltage goes above a certain threshold, preventing the high voltage from destroying the device that is plugged in. Surge protectors will only allow the proper amount of electricity to pass through your device.
A typical surge protector is a small box with several utility outlets, a power switch, and a three-wire cord for plugging into a wall outlet. Its main job is to defend your devices from voltage inconsistencies by rerouting unsafe energy.
However, it’s important to beware of relying on these small devices, as they’re not all created equal. Some are simply glorified power strips or extension cords and don’t offer much protection. Furthermore, surges will follow any wire into the house, leaving many devices vulnerable to danger.
A whole-house surge suppressor is a more effective strategy to prevent the dangers of power surges. A whole-home surge suppressor is connected directly to your home’s electrical service panel. But it can be placed in a more accessible location, ensuring you can easily access it if you prefer. Plus, a whole-home surge protector can be an excellent insurance policy against bad weather and power grid malfunctions. Electrical damage repairs can easily cost thousands, so installing a surge suppressor is a valuable investment.
When Should You Invest in a Surge Protector?
When you should invest in a surge protector? Here are four key reasons to consider getting a surge protector installed in your home.
1. You Want to Protect Your Electronic Investments
A common cause of power surges involves using high-power devices like refrigerators and air conditioning units. Just consider the potential cost of replacing one of these investments if a power surge causes damage! Given that these appliances constantly turn on and off and use various amounts of power, surges are more likely to occur in your electrical system when these devices are in use. The higher the power of a machine or device, the greater the risk of an electrical disaster occurring. To protect the devices you care about most, investing in surge protection is essential. A whole-home surge protector will offer protection that the individual units just can’t match.
2. You Want to Prevent Fires and Other Electrical Issues
One of the biggest threats of a power surge is the damage it can have on your electrical system. A power surge can burst wires, create extensive damage to your electrical equipment, and even cause devastating fires. Even if a power surge doesn’t completely ruin your electrical equipment, it can put more strain on your components and cause them to need replacements more often than usual.
The flow of electricity is similar to the flow of water through a hose. When one end of the wire has a higher amount of power, it is then transferred to the other end with low power. However, when that power exceeds the maximum threshold, an electrical disaster may happen. For example, when an electrical system can’t keep up with the demand of power through the wire, it can actually cause the wire to burst into flames.
3. Peace of Mind
One of the most important reasons to invest in a surge protector right away is for the peace of mind it will provide. Especially in the Kansas City area, when each season brings threatening weather, it’s easy to feel anxious about the safety of your home and the damage that power surges can cause. If you’re constantly stressed about house fires or power spikes, a surge protector will allow you to relax, knowing that your home and family are protected.
Protect Your Electrical System
When it comes to protecting your electrical system with surge protectors, the Jason Wright team is here to help. Electricity keeps your home and day-to-day duties running smoothly, so protecting the power in your house should be a top priority! In addition to installing a whole-home surge protector, we can help with a wide variety of electrical home renovations and updates.
At Jason Wright Electric, we’ve been striving to deliver fearless personal service for nearly 30 years in the Kansas City metro area. With our mission to care beyond your electrical needs, we’ve created a company that is proud of our roll-your-sleeves-up approach to electrical work with personalized care.
As your Electrical Concierge, we’re here to help protect your electrical system. Contact us today.