How To Protect Your Home From Power Surges During Storm Season

Power surges are sudden increases in voltage that can travel through your home’s electrical wiring. They happen more often than most homeowners realize — not just during lightning storms but also when the utility company restores power after an outage or when large appliances cycle on and off. Even a small surge can cause long-term wear on your electronics, while a large one can destroy them instantly.

The best defense against this invisible threat is a **whole-home surge protector** installed at your main electrical panel. Unlike the small plug-in power strips that only protect one device, a whole-home system shields everything connected to your home’s wiring — from your refrigerator and washer to your TVs, computers, and HVAC system. It works by diverting excess voltage safely to the ground before it reaches your outlets.

For an added layer of protection, it’s still a good idea to use **surge-protected power strips** for sensitive electronics like computers and entertainment systems. These provide local defense and are especially useful in rooms where you have valuable or delicate equipment. Make sure they are UL-listed and have an indicator light to show when protection is active.

During heavy storms, unplug nonessential devices and keep major electronics off until the weather passes. Even though surge protectors offer great defense, disconnecting high-value equipment adds one more level of safety. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that power surges can also come from inside their homes — such as when an air conditioner, water heater, or electric oven suddenly starts up. These internal surges are smaller but happen daily, slowly wearing down your equipment’s internal components.

By installing a professional-grade surge protection system, you’re not just protecting your appliances — you’re protecting your investment in your home’s electrical infrastructure. The cost of surge protection is minimal compared to replacing major appliances or repairing damaged wiring. Especially during storm season, it’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make for long-term peace of mind.