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HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME AGAINST A POWER SURGE
25Jul
by Sparky
0
Protecting your home against a power surge is essential to safeguard your electronic devices and electrical systems. Here are some steps you can take to protect your home:
1. Surge Protectors: Install surge protectors or surge suppressors at key locations in your home. These devices are designed to divert excess voltage from power surges, preventing it from reaching your sensitive electronics. Use high-quality surge protectors and make sure they have a sufficient joule rating to handle surges effectively. Place them between your electronic devices and the power source.
2. Whole-House Surge Protection: Consider installing a whole-house surge protection system. This system is typically installed at your main electrical panel and provides protection for all the electrical circuits in your home. It helps to suppress large surges before they reach your devices.
3. Unplug Sensitive Devices: During severe storms or when you’re away from home for an extended period, unplug sensitive electronic devices, such as computers, TVs, and audio equipment. This eliminates the risk of them being damaged by power surges.
4. Lightning Protection: Install a lightning rod or a lightning protection system on your property. This will help divert lightning strikes away from your home and minimize the risk of power surges caused by lightning.
5. Grounding: Ensure that your home’s electrical system is properly grounded. Proper grounding helps to redirect excess electrical energy safely into the ground, reducing the risk of power surges.
6. Avoid Daisy Chaining: Avoid daisy-chaining multiple power strips or surge protectors together. Plugging one power strip into another can overload the circuit and increase the risk of a power surge.
7. Regular Maintenance: Keep your electrical system well-maintained. Check for any loose connections, damaged wiring, or outdated components. Faulty electrical systems can increase the likelihood of power surges.
8. Backup Power: Consider investing in a battery backup or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for critical devices like computers, routers, and modems. These devices provide temporary power during a blackout or voltage fluctuation, protecting against sudden power loss and surges.
9. Surge Protection for Telephone and Cable Lines: Power surges can enter your home through telephone lines or cable TV lines. Install surge protectors specifically designed for these connections to safeguard your devices.
10. Insurance: Lastly, consider obtaining insurance coverage for your electronic devices and appliances. While this won’t prevent power surges, it can provide financial protection in case they get damaged
Remember that even with the proper precautions, power surges can still occur. However, by implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your home’s electrical devices and systems.