Electricians in Tacoma, WA, discuss power surges and whole-home surge protectors.
Tacoma, United States - November 24, 2025 / Hunt's Services /
Power Surges and Whole Home Surge Protectors Explained
Effective surge protection is the first line of defense against damaging voltage spikes. A single power surge can disable appliances and electronics in an instant, turning a normal day into an expensive ordeal. With the right planning, it’s possible to safeguard an electrical system and keep devices operating reliably. This overview explains power surge risks, the advantages of installing a whole-home surge protector, and how to recognize when existing protection should be replaced for continued safety and peace of mind.
Dangers of Power Surges
Lightning, utility switching, downed lines, and faulty or aging wiring can trigger a sudden power surge that travels through outlets and hardwired circuits. Large appliances cycling on and off can also create smaller spikes inside a house. Even brief events may push excess voltage into sensitive electronics, including smart TVs, computers, gaming systems, and modern kitchen equipment loaded with microprocessors.
The immediate effects range from unexplained shutdowns to devices that refuse to power back on. Long-term exposure to repeated small spikes can be just as destructive, gradually weakening circuit boards and reducing equipment lifespan. Another concern is the potential for overheated components and damaged insulation that may elevate fire risk behind walls or at receptacles. Because many surges leave no visible trace, the danger is often underestimated. Establishing layered surge protection—including point-of-use options and a main-panel device—helps shield an entire property from these events and minimizes the chance of hidden damage accumulating over time.
Benefits of Installing a Whole House Surge Protector
A whole-house surge protector, also known as a whole-home surge protector, is installed at the main electrical panel to intercept harmful voltage spikes before they travel throughout the residence. Unlike a power strip surge protector that only guards the items plugged into it, a panel-mounted device provides surge protection for all branch circuits at once—covering outlets, lighting, and hardwired equipment like HVAC systems, refrigerators, and more.
This comprehensive approach reduces the likelihood of failure across multiple rooms during a single surge event. It also complements point-of-use strips by handling the bulk of the surge energy, allowing individual power strip surge protectors to focus on fine-tuning protection at specific devices. Professional surge protector installation ensures proper placement, grounding, and bonding so the protector can safely divert excess energy away from the home’s wiring. With a quality whole home surge protector acting as the first barrier—and supplemental strips at delicate electronics—a property gains layered defense that protects investments, supports uptime for critical appliances, and helps avoid costly replacements.
Signs to Replace an Old Surge Protector
Surge protection devices do not last indefinitely. Internal components can wear down with each power surge, gradually reducing effectiveness. Visible indicators provide helpful clues. Status lights that go dark or show a “not protected” signal, unusual buzzing at the panel, or any sign of melting, scorching, or corrosion around the unit suggest it is time to replace it. If breakers trip frequently after storms, or connected electronics show unusual behavior, the system may no longer be absorbing surges as intended.
Even when no damage is visible, a history of severe weather, frequent utility disruptions, or multiple internal spikes from large appliances can justify replacement. Power strip surge protectors also age; if indicator LEDs fail or strips feel warm and emit odors, they should be swapped out promptly. Periodic evaluation by an electrician can confirm whether a whole-house surge protector still provides adequate coverage and whether new surge protector installation is advisable. Keeping protection current—both at the panel and at sensitive devices—helps ensure the next power surge is diverted safely rather than passing into valuable electronics.
About Hunt’s Services
Hunt’s Services is a top-rated plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical company committed to serving its Tacoma community with trusted technicians and on-time service. Call them today for straightforward pricing on whole-home surge protector installation in Tacoma, WA.
Contact Information:
Hunt's Services
8111 Pacific Hwy E
Tacoma, WA 98422
United States
Faruk Oyebanjo
(253) 533-7500
https://www.huntsservices.com/
