Power surges are a common occurrence in homes and are often caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and even faulty wiring. Of course, there are other situations that could cause a sudden, temporary increase in voltage but regardless of how it happened, power surges are bad news. Not only can they damage or destroy electrical devices, they can take out appliances and other electrical systems. In this blog, we will discuss the dangers of surges in homes and how to prevent them, including consulting an electrician.
The dangers of power surges
As we mentioned briefly above, power surges can cause significant damage to your electrical devices and appliances. When a surge occurs, it can overload and damage the circuitry in your electronics, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, power surges can cause fires, which can be devastating to your home and family. For these reasons, it is essential to take steps to prevent power surges in your home.
How to prevent power surges
To prevent power surges in your home, you might consider:
Installing surge protectors
Surge protectors are designed to prevent power surges from damaging your electrical devices. They work by redirecting excess voltage away from your devices, protecting them from damage. You can install surge protectors at the circuit breaker or outlet level, depending on your needs.
Checking your wiring
If you suspect that your wiring may be faulty or simply old, it is essential to have it inspected by a licensed electrician who can identify and repair any wiring issues
Unplugging devices
While this method is not fool-proof, you might consider unplugging your electronics during a storm or power outage to prevent surges.
Investing in a whole-home surge protection system
Rather than have every computer, electronic equipment, or appliance hooked up to surge protector that sort of functions like an extension cord, consider investing in a whole-home surge protection system that can sustain a higher voltage-absorption capacity than other surge protectors.
Start by consulting an electrician
Whenever electricity is involved, it is best to consult an electrician. An expert electrician can assess the situation, identify problems, and offer the best recommendations and solutions.
Polar Bear Services now offers residential and commercial electrical services in the Greater Birmingham metro
If you’re searching for an electrician in Birmingham that can help you evaluate your home for the risk of power surges, inspect your existing wiring, make electrical repairs, install whole-home surge protection systems, or take care of other electrical needs, contact Polar Bear Services today!
Isn’t Polar Bear an HVAC company?
We sure are! In fact, our locally owned and family-operated HVAC company has been serving the Greater Birmingham metro since 2011. We’re excited to be offering electrical services to homes and businesses in Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, and Hoover as well as throughout Greater Birmingham metro and we’ll continue to deliver the best HVAC services in Central Alabama! For more information about our electricians or if you are looking for help repairing, maintaining, or installing an HVAC system, give us call today!
