Many homeowners may not be aware of the dangers that electrical surges can pose to their appliances. Electrical surges can cause severe damage and can even lead to a fire.
These surges happen when there is an imbalance in the flow of electricity through your power system and can affect any electronic device, including your microwave, television, computer, and more.
Ways to protect your appliances from electrical surges
Here are some steps you should take to protect your appliances from these harmful surges.
Install a whole-house surge protector
The best way to protect your appliances from electrical surges is to install a whole-house surge protector. This will protect all of your appliances from damage in the event of a power surge that may be caused by a storm, an electrical fault, or the use of high-powered appliances on your electrical system.
Surge protection units protect your whole house and are installed directly into an outlet in your home. It intercepts any voltage spikes before they have a chance to damage anything plugged into the outlets throughout your house. The best model for you will depend on how many devices need to be protected and the wattage of each device.
Inspect your electrical wiring
One of the best ways to protect your appliances from electrical surges is to ensure that your electrical wiring is in good condition. Inspect your outlets, switches, and cords for any damage or wear and tear. If you have an old home, it’s especially important to check your wiring for any potential hazards.
Damaged electrical wiring can lead to dangerous electrical surges and fires. Don’t forget to check your power supplies, including your modem, router, and any electrical outlets using power strips. If you find any electrical wiring issues, have it repaired by a qualified electrician immediately.
Install additional protection for specific devices
To ensure maximum power surge protection for your electronics, install surge protectors for your TVs, refrigerator, computers, and other high-power appliances. These appliances are often more sensitive to power surges than others because they are mostly connected to a power source for longer hours and even 24/7 in some cases.
When investing in a surge protection device, ensure that the device is UL1449 certified. This certification ensures that your appliance will be protected from a power surge up to a certain level of voltage. Opt for the top brands and models of surge protectors to ensure the best protection for your devices.
Use your power outlets strategically
One mistake that many homeowners make is plugging too many power-hungry devices into the same power outlet. This can easily overload your home’s electrical system and cause a power surge. Try to spread out your electronics by using multiple outlets whenever possible. Remember that each power outlet is designed to handle a certain number and type of devices plugged into it.
If you have to use a single outlet, try using a surge protector. As mentioned earlier, a surge protector will help protect your appliances from any sudden spikes in voltage that can occur during a storm or when someone plugs in too many devices at once. Power-hungry devices like air conditioners and refrigerators should always be plugged into their own separate wall power outlets and surge protectors.
Upgrade your electrical panel
If you are experiencing frequent power surges, it might be time to upgrade your electrical panel. A new panel will help protect your appliances from future surges and keep your home running smoothly. If your home is older than 20 years, get a new panel as older models have been known to have lower levels of protection.
If you’re unsure if your home needs a new electrical panel, have a qualified electrician come out and take a look. They can tell you if your home needs an upgrade and can help you choose the right panel for your needs. Purchase a panel rated higher than the sum of your appliance’s wattages to ensure they are well-protected.
Upgrade your old AC unit
AC units often restart several times a day, especially during the summer months. This puts a lot of strain on the electrical current in your home, increasing the likelihood of a surge. Old AC units are particularly susceptible to electrical surges. Installing a new and more energy-efficient AC unit helps protect your appliances from electrical surges and saves you money on your electric bill in the long run.
Modern AC units require less power to start up, putting less strain on your home’s electrical system. They also have built-in surge protectors that will help keep your appliances safe from any sudden spikes in power. When it’s time for an AC upgrade in your home, make sure to choose one with surge protection and ensure you have a smart thermostat to create programmable temperature settings based on your heating and cooling needs, daily schedule, and weather conditions.
Electrical safety should always be a priority
When it comes to protecting appliances and other electronic devices in the home, homeowners must consider the importance of electrical safety. The tips discussed above will help you protect your electrical equipment, minimize the damage caused by power spikes and surges, and avoid dangers like fires.
Final words
You should also unplug seldom-used appliances to ensure that electrical surges don’t damage them. Finally, switch off devices plugged into a power strip that are not in use. By taking these simple precautions around your home, you will be safeguarding your appliances from damage and ensuring everyone’s safety.
