In today’s homes, nearly everything runs on electricity HVAC systems, refrigerators, washers and dryers, televisions, computers, and even smart appliances. With the average refrigerator costing $1,500–$3,000, HVAC systems ranging from $5,000–$12,000, and high-end electronics easily reaching thousands more, protecting your investment isn’t optional it’s essential. One unexpected power surge can damage or destroy these appliances in seconds.
That’s where surge protection comes in. But not all surge protection is created equal.
What Is a Power Surge?
A power surge is a sudden spike in voltage that travels through your electrical system. Surges can be caused by lightning strikes, downed power lines, utility grid switching, or even large appliances cycling on and off inside your home. These voltage spikes can overwhelm wiring and sensitive electronics, leading to permanent damage.
While many homeowners rely on plug-in power strips for protection, these devices only protect what’s plugged directly into them and even then, protection is limited.
Power Strips: Basic, Limited Protection
Power strips with surge protection are inexpensive and convenient. They’re commonly used for TVs, computers, and gaming systems. However, they have several limitations:
- They only protect individual devices plugged into them
- They do not protect hardwired appliances (HVAC, water heaters, refrigerators)
- They wear out over time and often fail silently
- They add clutter and can overload outlets
Most importantly, power strips cannot stop large surges entering your home from the main electrical panel. By the time the surge reaches your strip, damage may already be done elsewhere in your system.
Whole-Home Surge Protectors: Comprehensive Protection
A whole-home surge protector is installed directly at your electrical panel. This allows it to block or divert excess voltage before it travels through your home’s wiring system.
At Lights On Electric, we install whole-home surge protection as part of proactive electrical safety upgrades. When installed properly, this system protects:
- Kitchen appliances
- HVAC systems
- Laundry equipment
- Home office electronics
- Smart home systems
- All outlets throughout the house
Instead of protecting one device at a time, you’re protecting your entire electrical system.
If you’re already considering a panel upgrade, adding surge protection is one of the smartest investments you can make.
The Cost Comparison: Protecting Thousands of Dollars
Think about the value inside your home:
- Refrigerator: $2,000
- HVAC System: $8,000
- Washer & Dryer: $2,500
- TVs & Electronics: $3,000+
That’s easily $15,000–$20,000 in major appliances without counting smaller electronics.
A whole-home surge protector costs a fraction of replacing even one of those items. It’s a one-time investment that can prevent thousands in unexpected replacement costs.
Do Power Strips Waste Energy?
Many homeowners also don’t realize that multiple power strips contribute to “phantom energy” usage. Devices plugged into strips continue drawing small amounts of power even when turned off. While the cost may seem minor monthly, it adds up over time.
Whole-home surge protectors, on the other hand, are hardwired into your system and do not create outlet clutter or additional standby energy draw.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Surge protection installed at the panel must meet electrical code and be properly grounded to function effectively. Improper installation can reduce performance or create safety risks. That’s why it’s important to work with a licensed electrician.
At Lights On Electric, we prioritize safety, code compliance, and long-term reliability. If you’ve ever experienced flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, or storm-related electrical concerns, it may be time to consider upgrading your protection.
The Bottom Line
Power strips offer limited, short-term protection for small electronics. A whole-home surge protector safeguards your entire electrical system protecting the appliances and systems you rely on every day.
When you consider how much your home’s electrical equipment is worth, whole-home surge protection isn’t an extra, it’s smart insurance.
If you’re ready to protect your home the right way, Lights On Electric is here to help. Contact us to get started!