Surge Protection

The electricians at Mister Sparky can help protect your home from electric surges and help prevent costly and destructive power surges. A power can surge occur when the line voltage goes higher than it is rated for and stays there longer than ten milliseconds.

In today's high-tech world, computerized appliances and electronics can be damaged or destroyed by surges in electrical lines. In fact, every day appliances are zapped by an average of 20 power surges. These surges are power fluctuations that go unnoticed except by your appliances. The end result can shorten appliance lifespan by as much as 30%. That's like only getting to use 2/3 of what you paid for, but still paying full price.

The Need for Surge Protection
There are a number of reasons why power quality has become such an important issue. Today's computer chips are far more dense than they were even a few years ago, and subsequently, much more sensitive to even slight surges. Secondly, most homes and offices are using more equipment than ever before. Each time an electric device is turned on, transient voltages may be generated. Additionally, more microprocessor technology is being used than in years past. Microprocessors are showing up in personal computers, TVs, stereos, VCRs, DVRs, refrigerators, washers, dryers, microwave ovens, dishwashers and just about any electrical device manufactured today.

Internal surges occur when devices with motors such as refrigerators and hair dryers shut off. Suddenly the energy these devices were consuming is redirected elsewhere in the form of excess voltage. Surges can also occur when a power company switches power from one geographic area of the grid to another to meet its system demand. Thunderstorms and lightening can be the most dramatic and destructive causes of power line problems and electric surges.

To protect yourself from power surges, call Mister Sparky today. One of our experienced electricians will help you evaluate your needs and explain the options available for your home.