In today’s world, electrical appliances and devices are ubiquitous in our daily lives. We rely on them for communication, entertainment, work, and even basic needs such as cooking and heating. However, with the increasing dependence on electronics, the risk of power surges damaging these devices has also increased. That’s where whole-house surge protectors come in – to protect your home’s electronics from voltage spikes and ensure their longevity.
What is a Whole-House Surge Protector?
Basically, it is an electrical device installed in your home’s electrical panel that shields all the electrical devices and appliances connected to it from voltage spikes. A voltage spike is a sudden increase in electrical voltage that lasts for a short time but can cause significant damage to electronic devices. Whole-house surge protectors are designed to stop these voltage spikes from reaching your appliances by diverting the excess voltage to the ground.
Why Do You Need a Whole-House Surge Protector?
Power surges can happen at any time, and they are not always caused by lightning strikes. Other factors, such as power outages, faulty electrical wiring, or the cycling of appliances, can also lead to voltage spikes. Without protection, these spikes can damage or destroy your electronic devices, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
It provides a layer of protection for all the appliances and devices in your home. It not only safeguards your electronics from damage but also ensures that they operate at their optimal performance. Moreover, it can also protect your home’s electrical system itself from damage, reducing the risk of electrical fires caused by power surges.
Types of Whole-House Surge Protectors
There are two types of whole-house surge protectors: service entrance and branch circuit. Service entrance surge protectors are installed at the main electrical panel and protect the entire electrical system of your home. On the other hand, branch circuit surge protectors are installed at the individual branch circuits and protect specific appliances or devices.
While both types of surge protectors are effective, service entrance surge protectors offer more comprehensive protection for your entire home. They are also easier to install since they are installed at the main electrical panel.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a whole-house surge protector is a job for a licensed electrician. The installation process involves disconnecting the electrical service, mounting the protector, and connecting it to the electrical panel. It is a relatively simple process that usually takes a few hours to complete.
Once installed, they require little maintenance. However, it is recommended to have them inspected annually by a licensed electrician to ensure that they are functioning correctly. Additionally, if your home experiences a significant power surge, you should have your surge protector inspected and replaced if necessary.
Costs and Savings
The cost of a whole-house surge protector varies depending on the type and brand. Service entrance surge protectors can range from $200 to $600, while branch circuit surge protectors can cost $50 to $150 per device. While the initial cost may seem high, it is a small price to pay compared to the cost of replacing all the electronic devices in your home.
Moreover, they can also help you save money on your energy bills. They can improve the efficiency of your electrical devices by ensuring that they operate at their optimal performance. As a result, you can save money on your energy bills by reducing your energy consumption.
Conclusion
Overall, whole-house surge protectors are an essential investment for any homeowner. They provide a layer of protection for all the electronic devices and appliances in your home and ensure that they function at their optimal performance. With their relatively low cost and ease of installation, there is no reason not to have one installed in your home. Protect your home and your investments by investing in a whole-house surge protector today.
If you are looking for a company that installs whole-home surge protection in Estero, FL, look no further than our services here at Coup Electric Co. We provide a wide range of electrical services and maintenance in the Naples, Florida area. Call us today and let us tend to all your electrical needs.