Overview

Modern homes are packed with electronics and appliances that make life more convenient. While today’s technology is more affordable than ever, replacing expensive devices like refrigerators, washing machines, and entertainment systems is never ideal. Power fluctuations do a number on even the most durable household electronics. Although these surges may seem minor at first, over time, they wear down circuits and shorten the lifespan of your devices.

The good news? There’s an easy and cost-effective solution. Anytime Electric, Inc.’s electricians have put together this guide to explain how surge protection works, why it’s essential for protecting wiring and electrical equipment, and how installing these devices will safeguard your home from unexpected voltage spikes.

Highlights

Introduction

Imagine waking up one morning to find that a power surge has fried your refrigerator. Not only do you have to replace it, but you also have to deal with spoiled food and the hassle of disposal.

Now, consider your computers, televisions, HVAC system, and even small appliances. Sudden voltage spikes can severely damage all of these.

The reality is that electrical surges happen more often than you might think. They can strike without warning. That’s why investing in surge protection before you find yourself in this situation is one of the best steps you can take.

How Does Lightning Damage Your Home’s Electrical System?

A single lightning strike can introduce tens of thousands of volts into your wiring. This overwhelming energy can destroy your appliances, arc across outlets, and start electrical fires. Surge protection (especially whole-house systems) is your first line of defense against these electrical hazards during storms.

What Are Common Myths About How Power Fluctuations Affect Your Electronics?

Homeowners can be forgiven for mistakenly believing power surges and voltage spikes are rare, harmless, or only occur during major storms. These are common misconceptions. Unfortunately, these myths can lead to costly damage and a false sense of security.

Let’s break down some of the most common misconceptions about electrical surges and your home’s electronics.

Myth 1: Your Breaker Panel Protects Against Power Surges

Circuit breakers prevent overloads and short circuits. They don’t stop power surges or regulate sudden spikes in voltage that damage sensitive electronics and appliances. You need dedicated surge protection equipment for that.

Myth 2: Power Strips Are All the Protection Your Equipment Needs

While surge-protected power strips help protect small electronics like computers or TVs, they’re not designed to safeguard your entire home.

Whole-home protection is only possible when surge protective devices are connected to your home’s main and secondary electrical panels. This best guarantees complete coverage for major systems like HVAC units, kitchen appliances, and laundry machines.

Myth 3: Only Lightning Causes Power Surges

Lightning is just one source of power surges. Everyday events (like your refrigerator or AC unit cycling on or nearby power grid activity) can cause minor surges that slowly degrade the tiny components inside your electronics over time.

Myth 4: No Damage Occurs When Electronics Still Work After a Power Spike

Surges don’t always fry devices immediately. Many cause cumulative stress on internal components, shortening the performance of your appliances and electronics without obvious signs until they simply stop working one day.

What Can Cause a Power Surge?

Power surges can come from outside and inside your home.

Here are the most common causes:

  • Lightning strikes: Direct or nearby strikes can send thousands of volts coursing through your wiring.
  • Utility grid fluctuations: Voltage spikes can occur during grid switching, maintenance, or post-outage restoration.
  • High-powered appliances: High-powered units like refrigerators or air conditioners cause internal spikes when cycling on and off.
  • Faulty wiring: Aging or damaged wiring increases the risk of unstable voltage and internal surges.
  • Downed power lines: Storms, falling trees, or accidents can cause temporary power disruptions and dangerous voltage changes.

Can Small Power Surges Go Unnoticed?

Absolutely. Even minor voltage spikes can wear down circuit boards and internal components.

You might not notice the damage immediately. That doesn’t mean that over time, this “silent killer” won’t shorten the lifespan of your:

  • Laptops and desktop computers
  • Smart home systems
  • Kitchen and laundry appliances
  • Routers, modems, and network gear
  • LED lighting
  • HVAC equipment

Just because you can’t see the effects of small power surges, doesn’t mean they aren’t happening—or causing harm. Think of them as quiet stressors on your home’s most valuable electronics.

Why Does Your Home Need Surge Protection?

Power surges from weather events are often unpredictable and unavoidable. While utility companies work to maintain stability, the local grid’s aging infrastructure and exposure to extreme weather make surges more likely, especially during stormy seasons.

Surge protectors are gatekeepers that divert excessive voltage away from your appliances by safely grounding it. These devices respond instantly to spikes.

A whole-house surge protector will:

  • Prevent damage to HVAC systems, appliances, and sensitive electronics
  • Reduce the risk of fires from overloaded circuits
  • Protect against repeated small surges that slowly degrade equipment

Surge protection is a smart investment in your home’s longevity and your family’s safety.

Do Newer Triad Area Homes Need Surge Protection?

Yes. Many homeowners in the Triad region (including Kernersville, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem) assume their new or recently built home already includes surge protection. In reality, whole-house surge suppression isn’t a standard feature in most new builds. Even homes that went up within the last few years may still lack this vital safeguard.

Today’s households rely on a growing number of sensitive electronic systems. From smart appliances and home automation hubs to high-efficiency HVAC units, these devices are more vulnerable than ever to voltage spikes. Without comprehensive surge protection, a single power surge can cause expensive, irreversible damage. Installing a whole-house surge protector ensures your modern home is equipped to handle the electrical demands of today and the unexpected challenges of tomorrow.

How Do You Choose a Good Surge Protector?

Look for these features when selecting a surge protection device:

  • A high joule rating (indicating greater capacity to absorb surges)
  • Low clamping voltage (so less energy passes through to devices)
  • Indicator lights or alarms to confirm operation
  • Warranty and equipment coverage

Whole-House Surge Protectors vs. Power Strips: What’s the Difference?

Whole-house surge protectors are hardwired directly into your home’s main electrical panel by a licensed electrician. These devices protect your entire home because they work quickly to stop high-voltage surges before they reach your outlets. This makes them ideal for safeguarding built-in systems and large appliances like HVAC units, refrigerators, and washing machines.

Power strip surge protectors are plug-in devices that protect a limited number of electronics at a single outlet. They’re best suited for sensitive equipment like televisions, computers, gaming consoles, and home office devices. While power strips offer convenience and portability, they don’t provide whole-home coverage and often react to surges with a slight delay.

For optimal home protection, use both types of surge protection together. A whole-house surge protector offers primary defense against significant external surges, while point-of-use power strips add extra safety for vulnerable electronics inside your home.

How Much Does It Cost To Install Whole-Home Surge Suppression?

The cost of installing whole-home surge protection varies depending on your system’s needs, electrical configuration, and the type of devices you want to protect. Fortunately, whole-house surge protectors are a one-time investment that offers long-term advantages.

Here’s what you can typically expect on your installation estimate.

The Cost of the Surge Protector Unit

Quality surge protection devices vary in price, depending on their joule rating, features, and brand. Higher-end models offer longer warranties, better clamping voltage, and additional protection features.

Permit and Inspection Fees (If Applicable)

In some municipalities around Kernersville, Greensboro, or Winston-Salem, electrical permits or inspections may be required for code compliance. These costs vary but are generally modest when bundled with other electrical work.

Optional Electrical Surge Protector Add-Ons

Your estimate will also include add-ons you select for protecting high-risk or sensitive equipment, including:

  • Surge protection for specific appliances or subpanels
  • Upgrades to your main electrical panel
  • Lightning arresters or layered point-of-use protection

How Often Should Surge Protection Equipment Be Replaced?

Surge protectors wear out over time, especially after absorbing several spikes. Most should be inspected or replaced every 3 to 5 years or sooner if your home experiences frequent surges.

Have an electrician inspect your system annually and schedule replacement services as needed to ensure ongoing protection.

Invest in Surge Protection Installation for Home Safety

Households rely on sensitive electronics, from smart TVs and gaming systems to HVAC units and refrigerators. One unexpected power surge could instantly damage your devices—or worse, your entire electrical system. That’s why surge protection is no longer optional. It’s a smart, affordable safeguard every homeowner should consider.

Don’t wait for a damaging surge to ruin your electronics or budget. Professional surge protection is reliable and worth installing, especially in storm-prone areas or homes with high-end electronics.

Looking for more information about protecting your home from power problems? Call (336) 587-7944 today to book your complimentary surge protection consultation with a licensed electrician from Anytime Electric, Inc..