Most homes today have high-tech appliances and expensive home entertainment systems. A power surge, or spike in voltage, can damage your items, or lead to an electrical fire.
It does not matter how old or new your home is. All new appliances/electronics are made with circuit boards that control the functions of the items. Depending on which item takes a surge, the repair bill can range from a few hundred or several thousand dollars.
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Where do power surges come from?
Lightning
Power outages
Appliances, such as refrigerators or air conditioners, cycling on and off
Tripped circuit breakers
Angie's List, the nation's premier provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated electricians about the best ways to protect items in your home from surges.
1. Surge outlets and power strips: These are a good first step towards protection. Prices can range from $20 to $150 - look for ones with a warranty that will cover any damaged items connected to the device - some only cover the surge protector itself. They should also have an UL 1449 rating, which shows they have undergone testing.
2. Whole house surge protection: Stops the influx of voltage before it can come into your house. Installed in the electrical panel(s), all incoming telephone, and data lines, cable and/or satellite incoming lines. The cost is based on how many electrical panels and phone/cable lines need protection.
Angie's List tips for protecting your home:
1. Make a list: Take an inventory of your appliances and electronics. Make a note of how old the item is as well as how much it will cost to replace it. Then compare that with the cost of adding the surge protection.
2. Talk to your agent: Check with your homeowner's insurance to see if your appliances and electronics are covered in the event of a power surge.
3. Hire a pro: Electrical work can be dangerous - only a licensed electrical contractor should install and perform maintenance on a whole house surge protection system. These systems are easy to forget about once they are in place, but it's important to have them serviced regularly by a pro.
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