Spring storms in Texas can be unpredictable and intense, bringing lightning, high winds, and power outages. While we often think about protecting our homes from wind and water damage, many homeowners overlook one of the biggest risks power surges. A sudden spike in electricity from a lightning strike or power grid fluctuation can damage or destroy expensive electronics and appliances in seconds. The best defense is a solid surge protection plan.
At Top Notch Electrician, we help homeowners prepare for storm season with expert surge protection solutions. Here’s how you can protect your home before the next big storm.
What is a Power Surge and Why is it Dangerous?
A power surge is a sudden increase in voltage that flows through your home’s electrical system. Normally, your home runs on 120 volts, but a power surge can send thousands of volts into your wiring, causing serious damage.
Common causes of power surges:
- Lightning strikes – A nearby lightning strike can send an overwhelming surge through power lines.
- Downed power lines – Storms can knock down power lines, sending irregular voltage to homes.
- Utility grid switching – Power companies making adjustments can cause voltage spikes.
- High-powered appliances cycling on and off – Large appliances like air conditioners can cause small, repetitive surges.
What can a surge damage?
- Home entertainment systems
- Refrigerators and kitchen appliances
- HVAC systems
- Computers and office equipment
- Smart home devices and security systems
Even small surges add up over time, wearing down electronics and shortening their lifespan.
How to Protect Your Home from Power Surges
1. Install a Whole-Home Surge Protector
A whole-home surge protector is installed at your electrical panel and blocks large surges before they enter your home’s wiring.
Why is it the best solution:
- Protects everything plugged into your home’s outlets
- Prevents surges from damaging your appliances and wiring
- Works automatically—no need to unplug devices before a storm. A whole home surge protector acts as the first line of defense and is the best way to prevent costly damage.
2. Use Surge-Protected Power Strips
Not all power strips offer real surge protection. Make sure your power strips have built-in surge suppressors to protect TVs, computers, and gaming consoles.
What to look for:
- A joule rating of 1,000 or higher (higher is better)
- Indicator lights that show protection is active
- Auto-shutdown to prevent damage when protection wears out. Power strips are a great second layer of protection, but they should be used along with a whole-home surge protector.
3. Upgrade to Surge-Protected Outlets
For key areas like home offices, entertainment centers, and kitchens, upgrading to surge-protected outlets adds extra security. These outlets filter out excess voltage and provide localized protection.
Great locations for surge-protected outlets:
- Home office desks (computers, printers, modems)
- Kitchen counters (microwaves, coffee makers)
- TV and entertainment areas
- Workspaces with power tools
If your home still has old two-prong outlets, upgrading to modern three-prong surge-protected outlets can prevent damage and improve safety.
4. Unplug Devices During Severe Storms
If a major storm is coming, unplugging high-value electronics is a simple but effective way to eliminate risk.
- TVs, computers, gaming consoles, and kitchen appliances should be unplugged before a storm.
- Use smart plugs to remotely turn off appliances if you’re away from home.
Even with surge protection, unplugging is the safest option during extreme storms.
5. Inspect and Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
An outdated electrical panel may struggle to handle surges, increasing the risk of damage or fire. If your home is over 20 years old, consider having an electrician inspect your panel.
Signs your panel may need an upgrade:
- Breaker’s trip frequently
- Flickering lights when large appliances turn on
- Burning smells or hot breakers
- You still have an old fuse box instead of a modern breaker panel
Upgrading your panel not only improves surge protection but also prepares your home for increased power demands from modern appliances and smart devices.
Is Your Home Ready for Spring Storms?
Storm season in North Texas can be unpredictable, but protecting your home doesn’t have to be. The best way to prevent surge damage:
- Install a whole-home surge protector
- Use surge-protected power strips for sensitive electronics
- Upgrade outlets in high-risk areas
- Unplug devices during extreme storms
- Ensure your electrical panel is up to date
At Top Notch Electrician, we specialize in storm-proofing homes with expert surge protection solutions. Whether you need a whole-home surge protector, outlet upgrades, or a panel inspection, we’ve got you covered.
Schedule a Surge Protection Consultation Today
At Top Notch Electrician, we prioritize the satisfaction of the customer, and so our skilled professional makes sure to offer you the finest quality work. We handle all kinds of electrical work as we have a team of experts who are always ready to offer their services. Each one of our members has years of experience, and we make sure that all the electrical appliances in your home or office are working their best. You can trust us with your electrical work by contacting us at (972) 379-8646 or sending us an email at info@topnotchelectrician.com. You can relax by leaving your work to the professionals.