The Whole House Surge Protector - A Cost Effective Solution

Because most typical homes have so many sensitive electrical devices which can easily be destroyed by even tiny electrical spikes in current, a whole house surge protector is proving to be a cost effective security measure. This type of unit was developed to inhibit destructive jumps in electric power. It is typically positioned close to the electrical panel or outside meter and dampens power surges beginning outside of the dwelling, for example, such as lighting hitting a grid. Because of the capability of protecting a large number of electronics simultaneously, a whole house surge protector is a useful device to have in any residence, but in addition a necessary one.

The most common types of surge protection are point-of-use surge suppressors, such as outlets with ground fault interruptors and surge protection strips with built-in surge suppression. Even though these smaller surge protectors are effective for individual appliances or electronics, the best type of surge suppression is a whole house surge protector. Usually placed at the central electrical panel in your house, it concurrently provides surge protection for the entire dwelling and all electrical equipment within. As with all electrical work, a qualified electrician is required to ensure the best installation and warranty.

Always remember that no matter what brand of whole house surge protector you have, it will be useless unless it is installed with a adequate grounding system. With skilled installation, contractors will check, test, and perform any minor repairs to your home's main electrical grounding system. Be certain to bury all wiring deeply enough so they won't be destroyed by tillers, mowers, or digging equipment thereby damaging the grounding system. Older houses rarely have grounded electrical outlets. The problem with point of service units is that it is assumed they come with built-in surge suppression, although this is by and large not true.

Installing this type of surge suppression device is good for protecting audio and video components as well, and, Even though some "so called" professionals have said so, will not affect a system's sound or picture. All the above said, a whole house surge protector is a worthwhile purchase, but one should still use secondary suppression against electrical spikes for sensitive components, or rather, appliances or electronics that can be compromised by smaller spikes, for example, just as HD TVs. A total home suppressor, can be good insurance for everything electronic in your house, and does a better job than just using point-of-use surge suppressors.

by Danny Peters -

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