What Are Whole-House Surge Protectors & How Do They Work?
As a homeowner, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of your house and its appliances against power surges. These unexpected bursts of electrical energy can wreak havoc on your equipment, necessitating expensive repairs or replacements.
Whole-house surge protectors act as a safety net for your electrical system, safeguarding your appliances and electronics from damaging power surges. Unlike outlet-based surge protectors, which protect only a limited number of devices, whole-house protectors are installed at your home's electrical panel, shielding your entire electrical system.
When a power surge occurs, the whole-house surge protector diverts the excess energy away from your appliances and electronics, absorbing it safely. This prevents potential damage to your devices and can even help protect your home's wiring. By investing in a whole-house surge protector, you can significantly reduce the risk of costly repairs and disruptions to your daily life.
Choosing the Right Size & Type of Surge Protector
Investing in whole-house surge protection is an effective way to safeguard your home. However, selecting the proper surge protection can be a daunting task.
1. Determine Your Power Needs
The first step in choosing whole-house surge protection is determining your power needs. You should consider the number of home appliances and electronic devices needing protection. This will help you determine the size of the surge protector you need.
2. Look for UL Certification
When choosing a surge protector, look for one that is UL-certified. UL certification ensures that the product has been tested and meets safety standards.
3. Consider the Clamping Voltage
The clamping voltage is the voltage at which the surge protector will start to divert excess voltage away from your appliances. The lower the clamping voltage, the better the surge protector will protect your devices. Look for a surge protector with a 400 volts or less clamping voltage.
4. Check the Joule Rating
The joule rating is the energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. Look for a surge protector with a joule rating of at least 1000.
5. Look for Additional Features
Some surge protectors have additional features such as LED indicators, audible alarms, and automatic shutoff. These features can provide additional protection and make it easier to monitor the surge protector.
Surge Protection Solutions in Knox, Sevier & Hamblen Counties
In conclusion, whole-house surge protection is an essential investment for any homeowner. Following these tips, you can choose the right surge protector for your home and protect your appliances from power surges.
At Quality Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we offer whole-house surge protection services that can help safeguard your Knoxville-area home. Contact us today at (865) 622-7785 to learn more.