The wet season in Bellingham typically runs from October to April, but that doesn’t mean strong spring storms can’t happen beyond then. Installing surge protection helps safeguard your home’s electrical system and the gadgets and devices connected to it. If you’re considering installing the device, it’s beneficial to learn more about the process and its benefits. This can help you make informed decisions in the best interest of your Bellingham home.
Why Spring Is the Best Time to Install Whole-Home Surge Protection
Installing whole-home surge protection in spring helps protect homes from the season’s thunderstorms and corresponding lightning strikes and power surges. Strong storms can create voltage spikes, which could damage your plugged-in appliances and other electronics. When excess voltage enters your electrical system, the device detects it and intervenes, diverting it into the ground. The sooner you install the system, the sooner you can have peace of mind that your electrical system has the protection it needs.
When Should I Call to Book the Installation Appointment?
We recommend calling Marr's Heating, AC, Plumbing and Electrical in late winter or early spring to book your appointment for a whole-house surge protection installation. Spring is a busy season for electricians, as many homeowners, business owners, and contractors schedule services. Reserving your appointment early provides you with more date and time options. Installing the device early in the season ensures the protection is in place before strong storms happen in the area.
How Often Does the Whole-Home Surge Protection Device Need an Inspection?
Newer electrical systems should have a professional inspection every three to five years. Older electrical systems need them more frequently, usually every two or three years. Homeowners can certainly schedule inspections more frequently. However, you shouldn’t wait longer than the recommended timeframe between inspections. During the appointment, we’ll inspect your whole-home surge protection and the electrical panel. Our team will also check out the rest of your system, including outlets, lighting, and switches, to ensure they’re in good condition.
Where Does the Device Go?
A whole-home surge protection device connects to an electrical panel. We can install it right on your existing panel, so you don’t necessarily need to replace it. However, if your panel is outdated, we may recommend upgrading it. An electrical panel typically has a lifespan of 25 to 40 years.
How Long Does the Installation Appointment Take?
We can usually install whole-home surge protection within a few hours. However, depending on certain factors, such as your electrical system’s complexity, it may require more time. An adult, ideally the homeowner, should be home during the installation appointment. This ensures we can access all the necessary areas of the home and can ask questions if needed. It’s also a good opportunity for homeowners to ask us questions, such as how to extend the device’s lifespan.
What Are the Signs I Need Whole-Home Surge Protection?
If you live in an area with frequent thunderstorms, that in itself is a sign that you could benefit from whole-home surge protection. Being on an unstable power grid is another indicator. Additional signs include frequent breaker trips, blown fuses, and flickering lights when you use appliances that draw significant electricity. You may also notice that you have to replace plugged-in appliances and gadgets much sooner than anticipated.
Some homeowners don’t wait for signs that they should install whole-home surge protection. They do it as a preventive measure to help safeguard their home, electrical system, and expensive appliances and gadgets. The potential for increased property value and reduced insurance premiums could also be an appealing reason.
What Does Surge Protection Safeguard?
The device helps safeguard items you have plugged into your electrical system. This can include appliances like your water heater, HVAC unit, refrigerator, washing machine, and dryer. Additional items include lights, smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and televisions.
What Is the Lifespan of a Whole-Home Surge Protection Device?
Whole-house surge protection devices usually last about five years. However, there are several factors that influence their longevity, including the frequency and severity of the power surges. The quality of the installation, as well as the device model, can also have an impact.
What Are the Benefits of Whole-House Surge Protection?
There are numerous benefits to installing whole-house surge protection. Most notably, it helps protect your electronics and electrical system. They can give you peace of mind that your home has an added layer of protection when spring storms arrive.
Whole-home surge protection may also increase your property value. If you decide to put your home on the market in the future, it could be an attractive selling point. Many potential homebuyers who are knowledgeable about the benefits might see it as a significant advantage. They also won’t have to worry about installing the system themselves.
Another benefit is that you may be able to reduce your insurance premiums. Some carriers offer discounts to homeowners who install the device because they decrease the risk of electrical damage claims. Contact your insurance company to determine if they would offer you a discount.
How Much Does Whole-House Surge Protection Cost?
A whole-house surge protection device usually costs several hundred dollars, but there’s also the cost of labor to install it. The final cost can vary based on several factors, including the model and your system’s complexity. We’ll discuss your budget and help you find one in your price range.
DIY vs. Professional Surge Protection Installation?
Some homeowners may attempt to install a whole-home surge protection device themselves as a way to save money. However, we strongly advise against this, as it could result in significant problems, such as personal injury. You may also end up causing damage to the device before you even get to use it. Additionally, attempting the task might void the manufacturer’s warranty. They usually have terms stating that only licensed electricians can install surge protectors. Performing a DIY installation and voiding the warranty may mean you have to pay for future services yourself out of pocket.
How Do I Know What Surge Protection Device to Choose?
Our team consists of experts who know all the ins and outs of whole-home surge protection devices. We’ll take the time to learn about your electrical needs, preferences, and budget to help you choose the best option for your home. Our electricians will also discuss the time frame in which you want the installation done.
Protect Your Home Today
Learn more about how whole-home surge protection can protect your house. Marr's Heating, AC, Plumbing and Electrical in Bellingham, WA, provides high-quality surge protection installation services to local homeowners. Call us today to schedule an appointment or message us through our website if you have any questions.
