Power surges can happen in seconds — but the damage can last much longer.

Whether caused by a lightning strike, utility issue, downed power line, or large appliances cycling on and off, a surge sends excess voltage through your electrical system.

Knowing what to do immediately after can protect your home and prevent further damage.

⚡ What Is a Power Surge?

A power surge is a sudden spike in voltage flowing through your electrical system.

Most homes are designed for 120 volts per circuit. During a surge, voltage can jump far beyond that — potentially damaging:

• Electronics
• Appliances
• HVAC systems
• TVs and computers
• Smart home devices

Even small surges over time can shorten equipment lifespan.

🚩 Step 1: Check for Immediate Damage

After a surge, look for:

• Tripped breakers
• Burnt smell
• Devices that won’t turn on
• Flickering lights
• Reset clocks or electronics

If you notice burning odors or smoke, turn off power at the main breaker and call for professional evaluation immediately.

🔌 Step 2: Reset Breakers Carefully

If breakers have tripped:

1. Turn the breaker fully to the OFF position
2. Then switch it back ON

If it trips again immediately, stop — that indicates a potential wiring or appliance issue.

💻 Step 3: Test Appliances One at a Time

Plug devices back in gradually.

If a specific appliance causes the breaker to trip, it may have been damaged by the surge.

High-risk items include:

• Refrigerators
• Microwaves
• Televisions
• Routers/modems
• Computers
• HVAC systems

🏠 Step 4: Inspect GFCI & AFCI Devices

Surges can trip GFCI or AFCI outlets and breakers.

These protective devices are required under standards published by the National Fire Protection Association in the National Electrical Code.

Press the reset button on GFCI outlets if needed.

If they will not reset, professional inspection is recommended.

⚠️ Step 5: Watch for Delayed Issues

Some damage is not immediate.

Over the next few days, watch for:

• Appliances running louder than normal
• Lights dimming unexpectedly
• Devices overheating
• Random breaker trips

Internal components can weaken from voltage spikes.

💡 Should You Install Surge Protection?

If your home does not have whole-home surge protection, it may be worth considering.

Power strips provide limited protection. A professionally installed whole-home surge protector helps defend:

• Major appliances
• Electrical panel
• Built-in systems
• Sensitive electronics

Especially in areas prone to storms or grid fluctuations.

🔥 When to Call an Electrician

Call for professional evaluation if:

• Multiple appliances stopped working
• The main breaker tripped
• You smell burning
• Outlets feel warm
• Surge happened during a lightning storm
• You experience repeated surges

Electrical damage isn’t always visible.

🛠 Final Thought

Power surges are unpredictable — but preparation makes a difference.

After a surge, take time to inspect your system and ensure everything is functioning properly.

And if you’ve experienced more than one surge recently, it may be time to invest in stronger protection for your home.