Protecting your home from power surges is essential to keeping your electrical appliances safe and preventing damage or loss.
A power surge is a sudden increase in voltage that can cause electrical equipment to malfunction or fail, and it can be caused by various factors - lightning strikes, faulty wiring, or power grid issues.
There are several signs that you may have experienced a power surge in your home. Some of these indicators are:
Flickering lights: If your lights flicker or dim momentarily, it could be a sign of a power surge.
Burnt-out electronics: If your electronic devices stop working suddenly, it could be a sign of a power surge.
Tripped circuit breakers: If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it could be a sign of power surges.
Electrical odor: If you smell an electrical odor, it could be a sign that your electrical equipment has been damaged due to a power surge.
How to Test for Power Surges
To test for power surges, you can use a surge protector. A surge protector is a device that helps protect your electrical equipment from power surges. You can plug your electrical equipment into a surge protector and test it by switching it on and off. If your electrical equipment still works, it means the surge protector has done its job.
Or, consider installing a whole-home surge protector - a hard-wired device on your electrical panel - to protect your home in even the most dramatic circumstances. Licensed electricians are recommended to install these to properly protect your home.
How to Prevent Power Surges
There are several ways to prevent power surges in your home, including:
Install surge protectors: Installing surge protectors can help protect your electrical equipment from power surges. You can install surge protectors in your home's electrical panel or individual outlets.
Unplug electrical devices: Unplugging electrical devices when they are not in use can help prevent power surges.
Get a home electrical inspection: Getting a home electrical inspection can help identify any potential electrical issues that could cause power surges.
Maintain your electrical system: Regular maintenance of your electrical system can help prevent power surges. This includes checking your wiring, outlets, and appliances for any damage.
Power Surge vs. Power Outage
A power surge is different from a power outage. A power outage is a complete loss of power, while a power surge is a sudden increase in voltage. A power outage can be caused by several factors, such as severe weather, equipment failure, or scheduled maintenance.
In conclusion, protecting your home from power surges is crucial to prevent any damage or loss to your electrical equipment. By identifying the signs of a power surge, testing for power surges, and taking preventative measures, such as installing surge protectors and regular maintenance, you can keep your electrical equipment safe and prevent any damage.
If you are looking for an electrician in Cypress, Texas, and are concerned about power surges, consider contacting Unity Services to help you identify and prevent power surges in your home.