At It's On Electrical, LLC, we understand how crucial it is to protect your home and its electrical systems from unexpected events. One such event that can cause significant damage is a power surge. But what exactly is a power surge, and why should you be concerned about it?
A power surge is a sudden, brief spike in the electrical voltage running through your home’s wiring. This spike can be caused by several factors, including lightning strikes, power outages, and the operation of high-powered electrical devices. When a surge occurs, the voltage exceeds the normal level of 120 volts, which is what most household wiring and appliances are designed to handle. This excess voltage can lead to various problems, from minor glitches to serious damage.
Causes of Power Surges
- 1. Lightning Strikes: One of the most dramatic and dangerous causes of power surges. A lightning strike near a power line can introduce a massive amount of electricity into your home’s electrical system, potentially destroying electronics and appliances.
- 2. Power Outages and Grid Switching: When power is restored after an outage, the initial influx of electricity can create a surge. Similarly, when the power company switches grids or transformers, brief surges can occur.
- 3. High-Powered Electrical Devices: Appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and power tools require significant power to operate. When these devices turn on or off, they can cause small, but frequent surges within your home’s electrical system.
Effects of Power Surges
The impact of a power surge can range from imperceptible to catastrophic. Smaller surges may cause electronics to malfunction or reduce their lifespan over time. Larger surges, on the other hand, can instantly fry circuit boards, render appliances inoperable, and even cause electrical fires.
Protecting Your Home
Protecting your home from power surges is essential. At It's On Electrical, LLC, we offer a range of solutions to safeguard your electrical system. Whole-house surge protectors are installed at your electrical panel and provide a first line of defense. Additionally, using plug-in surge protectors for individual devices adds an extra layer of protection for your most valuable electronics.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what a power surge is and how it can affect your home is the first step in preventing potential damage. At It's On Electrical, LLC, we are dedicated to helping you protect your home’s electrical system with top-of-the-line surge protection solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you safeguard your home from power surges and for electrical inspections.
