Electrical surges cause millions of dollars in damage to home appliances and electronics each year, and, in most cases, this damage and inconvenience can be prevented. While lightning can cause some surges, but most are from other causes. Damaging spikes occur when the voltage in your home’s electrical system increases and returns to normal within millionths of a second.
In many respects, we have become a “wired society.” Many of us have more than one television, DVD player, computer, microwave oven, automatic electric garage door openers, stereo components, and on and on. A quick look around your home or apartment will likely reveal several electronic devices plugged into the walls. And, in less time than it takes to blink your eye, these modern luxuries and conveniences could be gone.
An electrical device you need
The best way to adequately protect against power surges is to use a surge protector. Installed surge protection, combined with a sound home grounding system, should protect your electrical and electronic appliances from all but the most severe electrical surges. For the best protection from surges, install a surge protection device at the electrical meter or main electrical panel. Your utility company can install this device at your request. If your utility company doesn’t offer the service, a qualified electrician can perform the work.
In addition, surge protectors should be connected to each device to be protected. A multiport protector is needed to help prevent outside surges from causing damage to your computers, TVs, or cable boxes.
More than an inconvenience, electronic components and microchips are now in most appliances, and they are sensitive to surges. The electrical windings in motors and even the insulation on wiring can be damaged by a surge. But there is more to be concerned about than the inconvenience of living temporarily without a phone, air conditioning, or television.
Pumps and sump pumps can also fall prey to electrical surges. It would help if you had Back up batteries for these types of devices. Few of us could handle life without running water; none of us wants to deal with a flooded basement.
Finally, to protect your home from electrical surges, read about The best generators for your Michigan Home.
