Voltage Surges: Understanding the Damage and How to Protect Your Home

Typical Damage From Voltage Surge

As a homeowner in the 02907 zip code of Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island, it is important to be aware of potential hazards that may cause damage to your property. One such hazard is voltage surges, also known as power surges. These sudden increases in electrical voltage can wreak havoc on your home’s electrical system, causing damage to appliances, electronics, and even the electrical wiring in your home. As the leading electrical business in the Warwick area, B&K Electric is dedicated to keeping our community and customers safe by providing expert electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation services. In this article, we will dive into the topic of voltage surges, including the typical damage they can cause and how you can protect your home.

What is a Voltage Surge?

In simple terms, a voltage surge is a brief spike in electrical voltage that can occur in your home’s electrical system. These surges can range anywhere from a few volts to over 6,000 volts and can last just a few microseconds. While most voltage surges are caused by internal events within your home, such as a sudden increase in demand for electricity, they can also be caused by external events, such as lightning strikes and power grid disturbances. As a homeowner, it is important to understand that voltage surges are a common occurrence and can happen at any time.

Typical Damage from Voltage Surges

The damage caused by voltage surges can vary depending on the intensity and length of the surge, but some of the most common types of damage include:

1. Damage to Electronics and Appliances: With the rise in the use of electronics in our homes, the potential for damage from voltage surges has also increased. These surges can damage or shorten the lifespan of your TV, computer, refrigerator, and other expensive electronic devices. In some cases, the damage may not be immediately noticeable but can lead to malfunctions and breakdowns over time.

2. Electrical Fires: In extreme cases, voltage surges can cause electrical fires, which can be dangerous and damaging to your home. The sudden spike in voltage can overload the electrical wiring, leading to overheating and potentially causing a fire.

3. Damage to Electrical Wiring: Along with electronics and appliances, the electrical wiring in your home is also at risk during a voltage surge. The sudden increase in voltage can cause damage to the electrical wiring, which can lead to electrical malfunctions and safety hazards in your home.

4. Loss of Data: Another common consequence of voltage surges is the loss of data stored on your electronic devices. Surges can corrupt files and data, leaving you without important documents or memories that may be stored on your devices.

Protecting Your Home from Voltage Surges

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your home from the damaging effects of voltage surges. Here are a few ways to safeguard your home:

1. Install Surge Protectors: Surge protectors are essential in protecting your electronics and appliances from voltage surges. These devices work by diverting excess voltage into the ground, preventing it from reaching your devices. Make sure to use surge protectors that are rated for the appropriate voltage and are properly installed.

2. Unplug Electronics During Storms: As mentioned earlier, external events such as lightning strikes can cause voltage surges. To minimize the risk of damage to your electronics, unplug them during thunderstorms or other severe weather events.

3. Maintain Your Electrical System: Keeping your electrical system in good working condition is crucial in preventing voltage surges. Regular maintenance and inspections by a licensed electrician, such as B&K Electric, can ensure that your electrical system is up-to-date and functioning properly.

4. Consider Whole-House Surge Protection: While surge protectors are effective, they only protect the devices that are plugged into them. A whole-house surge protection system, on the other hand, offers protection for your entire home. This system is installed at your home’s electrical panel and works by diverting excess voltage directly to the ground before it reaches your devices.

Voltage surges can happen at any time and can cause significant damage to your home and electronic devices. As a responsible homeowner, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards and take steps to protect your property. By following the tips mentioned above and enlisting the help of a reliable and experienced electrician like B&K Electric, you can safeguard your home and its electrical system from the damaging effects of voltage surges.

Topics:

Voltage Surges,

Electrical Repair,

Panel Maintenance