What are the Pros and Cons of Whole House Surge Protectors?

Surge protectors: those unsung heroes that silently shield our beloved gadgets from electrical chaos. While we often associate them with dramatic lightning strikes, there’s more to the story. Your team of trusted electricians from Golden Rule is here to shed light on whole-house surge protectors and their pros and cons.

The Silent Threat: Small Voltage Surges

Throughout the year, your home faces not the Hollywood-style lightning flashes but smaller voltage surges. These subtle jolts can quietly erode your precious electronics over time. Picture this: your trusty fridge gives up the ghost after only two years. It’s like a slow, silent electronic erosion, and it’s all too real.

Thankfully, we have two reliable options to thwart this sneaky damage:

Option 1: The Power Strip Surge Protector
Think of it as a power strip with a superhero alter ego—a guardian for your electronics. You’ll often find these in home offices or rooms housing your prized gadgets. They are budget-friendly and a breeze to set up. However, your wallet might feel a pinch if you need multiple units.

Option 2: The Whole House Surge Protector
This gadget is the superhero of surge protectors. Installed in your home’s electrical panel by a certified electrician, it protects your household. It’s pricier upfront, and professional installation is a must, but it might save the day in the long run.

Pros and Cons – Which Is Right for You?

Now, let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of whole-house surge protectors compared to their standard counterparts. The crucial question is, should you invest in a whole-house surge protector? Well, it’s a mixed bag. If your home has appliances that power strip protectors can’t shield, the answer might be a resounding yes. But here are some aspects to consider:

Pro: Fort Knox-Level Protection
Whole-house surge protectors are like Fort Knox of surge protection. They guard against internal surges that can slowly wear down your electronics, such as loose wires or rogue appliances. Moreover, they stand firm against major events like lightning strikes, which can cause significant damage or even fires.

Con: It’s a Pricier Party
The investment can set you back around $700, including installation, which seems pricey. However, this expense looks rather wise compared to replacing a $2,000 refrigerator, a $1,000 TV, or a $1,500 washer and dryer set.

Pro: Zen-Level Peace of Mind
Let’s not forget about the intangible benefits. Whole house surge protectors provide a sense of calm that’s challenging to put a price on. When all your gear is protected under one roof, you can rest easy, especially if you live in a storm-prone area or a place with frequent power fluctuations.

The bottom line is this:

whole-house surge protectors are often worth the investment, given the potential cost of electronics failing.

Our homes are becoming more intelligent and tech-savvy, so their role is more critical than ever. However, the choice ultimately hinges on your needs and your comfort level with risk. Whether you opt for power strip protectors or go all-in with a whole house system, safeguarding your gadgets is smart.

If you’d like to know more about how whole-house surge protectors work or if they meet your needs, contact one of our expert Golden Rule Electricians. We’d be glad to help. Thanks for reading!