• Computers, servers, or modems
• DVD players and home theaters
• Televisions
• Security systems
• Garage doors
• Digital clocks
• Any other equipment needing constant, uninterrupted power

Power surges can damage the electrical devices in your home with one large,
powerful surge or over an extended period of time via smaller, more frequent surges.

What Causes a Power Surge?

There are a variety of sources of power surges. From time to time your
power surge may be a result of your utility company switching power grids.
Some power surges are caused by lightning striking utility equipment,
a small animal in a transformer, or a tree limb landing on a power line.
Most commonly caused by lightning, a power surge can enter your home many
different ways. It can follow the path of cable TV, telephone lines, the
electrical service line, and more.

Most U.S. homes operate using a 120 volt, 60 Hz, single phase, alternating
current. Modern electrical devices and appliances are programmed to use
this type of current. When operating correctly, electrical circuits will
oscillate between 0 and 169 volts of electricity. In a power surge, voltage
spikes above 169 volts, disrupting the current and damaging any electrical
devices in its path.

How to Protect Against a Power Surge

There are many solutions to protect household appliances and other electrical
devices from a power surge. Ultimately, it is best to use one or more
of these methods to protect your home from damaged property, electrical
shock, and an electrical fire.

Whole-House Surge Protector

A whole-house surge protection device (SPD), also known as a service entrance
SPD, is built to protect major home appliances (refrigerators, air conditioners,
etc.) from significant spikes in voltage often caused by a lightning strike.
A whole-house SPD is installed in the main breaker panel in your home
and generally costs around $500.

Plug-In (Outlet) Surge Protector

These devices simply plug into your outlet and look similar to a regular
multi-plug strip. However, do not assume your multi-plug strip doubles
as a surge protector. We recommend purchasing strips marked with a UL
Standard 1449 seal of approval. This is a national benchmark and means
the product was thoroughly tested before being approved for retail.

Some surge protectors come with a light to indicate when it needs to be
replaced. This is also a good feature to have on your surge protectors
so you know when to replace your old SPD. Some surge protection devices
include a warranty that could potentially save you money. Read the warranty
thoroughly, as some SPD warranties cover only the SPD, while others may
cover the SPD and the appliances it’s meant to protect.

Virginia Beach Electricians You Can Trust

If you want to protect your home and its electrical devices, using a combination
of a whole-house SPD and plug-in SPDs are the best solution for you. If
you live in the Virginia Beach area and would like to learn more, contact the
professional electricians at American Mechanical. Our staff is trained to answer all of your
electrical questions.
Contact us today!