If you've had problems with some of your electrical equipment after a lightning strike in a storm or a supplier power spike, then you may be thinking about putting in some surge protectors. These devices help keep your electricity supply constant when there is a sudden surge in power.
While you can add surge protection to individual power points, you can also use a solution that benefits the whole house. How does this work and what are the benefits?
How Does Whole-House Surge Protection Work?
Individual surge protection devices work on a single power point or plug. They protect anything that happens to be plugged in to that point if there is a power spike. This prevents the spike from releasing too much electricity into equipment where it might cause some damage.
A whole house surge protector sits in your home's main switchboard. It automatically covers all of your power outlets at once.
What Are the Benefits of Switchboard Surge Protection?
A whole house protection system deals with the surge at source so spikes won't come through any plugs. This means that you get a one-stop system rather than having to adapt individual outlets.
While protecting all of your outlets from spikes may seem a big step, you should think about the kinds of products and equipment you use at home before you decide what kind of surge protection you need. Power surges can damage a range of items.
For example, on a basic level, a surge might blow out LED light bulbs. A sudden spike may also affect computers, TVs and phones. Even your kitchen machines, like washers, fridges and coffee machines, can be affected.
Many electrical products and gadgets contain vulnerable circuit boards or chips now, which may be damaged by a sudden spike in their power supply. If you have a switchboard surge protector, you typically protect everything that is plugged in.
If the only thing you are worried about is your computer, then a single power point protector or adaptor may be enough protection for you. However, if you have more electronics or complex electricals at home in different rooms, then you may need more comprehensive cover.
If you aren't sure if you need complete switchboard-based protection, then ask an electrician for advice. They can help you assess which of your pieces of equipment and machines might be damaged in a power surge and can then install the right levels of protection for your needs. Reach out to an electrical contractor near you to learn more.