Why Invest in a Whole Home Surge Protector with Your Generac Generator
Electricity is tricky.
It’s essential to our lives, but a hassle and hazard.
We all rely on high-powered appliances and devices daily, making power outages more inconvenient than ever.
Outages are becoming more frequent in the same breath, leading many to lean towards whole-home generators for a reliable power solution.
With all these fluctuations in the electricity coming into our homes, it’s no surprise that we need to pay careful attention to surge safety.
Everything You’ll Learn About Power Surges
Understanding Power Surges and Generators
What is a Power Surge?
A power surge is a sudden increase in voltage that can damage electrical devices and appliances.
These fluctuations in voltage, left unchecked, can cause:
Burnt-Out Circuit Boards: Electronics and appliances with sensitive circuit boards can be fried by sudden surges, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Damage to Electronic Devices and Appliances: Sensitive electronics like TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances can be fried by sudden surges.
Data Loss: Computers and smart devices are at risk of losing valuable data.
Electrical Fires: Severe surges can overheat wiring, posing a fire risk.
How Generators Cause and Are Affected by Surges
Generators can create electrical spikes, particularly during start-ups and shutdowns.
When a power outage occurs, the generator kicks in to restore power.
This transition from utility power to generator power can cause significant voltage fluctuations. Similarly, when the power returns and the generator shuts down, it can create another surge. These surges can:
Affect Home Wiring: The sudden influx of power can overload circuits, potentially damaging the home’s wiring.
Damage Devices: Sensitive electronics, like computers and TVs, can be particularly vulnerable to these spikes.
Also, power surges can damage generators, putting your investment at risk. For instance:
Surge from Utility Power: When the main power supply returns, it can send a surge through the system, affecting the generator.
Internal Surges: Surges created by high-wattage appliances switching on and off can give feedback to the generator, causing wear and potential damage.
Why Pair a Surge Protector with Your Generac Generator
Comprehensive Protection
A whole home surge protector safeguards all electrical devices and appliances in your home.
Unlike individual surge protectors, which only protect specific devices, a whole-home surge protector provides protection across your entire electrical system, ensuring every outlet and device is covered.
Enhanced Safety
Installing a whole-home surge protector helps prevent electrical fires caused by power surges. This adds a crucial layer of safety to your home, giving you peace of mind that your family and property are protected from potential hazards.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Appliances
Protecting your high-end electronics and appliances from power surges can significantly increase their lifespan.
Surge protectors reduce the wear and tear caused by electrical fluctuations, saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Seamless Integration
A surge protector complements the functionality of a Generac generator. It ensures a stable and safe electricity supply during generator operation, preventing the spikes and surges that can occur when switching to generator power.
This seamless integration keeps your home’s power consistent and reliable.
Optimal Generator Performance and Protection
Maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your Generac generator is crucial.
A surge protector prevents damage to the generator itself from electrical spikes, ensuring it operates smoothly and effectively. This helps avoid costly repairs and extends the generator’s lifespan.
Power and Protect Your Home by Adding a Whole Home Surge Protector to Your Generator Investment
Protecting your home from power surges is crucial, especially when relying on a generator during outages.
Investing in a whole home surge protector provides comprehensive protection, enhances safety, increases the longevity of your appliances, and ensures the optimal performance of your Generac generator.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about installing a whole home surge protector alongside your Generac generator.
FAQ
1. What is a whole home surge protector?
A whole home surge protector is a device installed at your electrical panel that protects your home from voltage spikes. It blocks or grounds excess voltage before it can reach your appliances and electronics.
2. How does a surge protector work with a Generac generator?
A surge protector works with your Generac generator by providing a buffer against voltage spikes. It mitigates any surges caused by generator start-ups or utility power transitions, protecting your home’s electrical system and devices.
3. Can a whole home surge protector prevent all types of surges?
While a whole-home surge protector offers comprehensive protection against most surges, extremely large surges, such as those from direct lightning strikes, might still cause damage. However, it significantly reduces the risk of damage from everyday surges and fluctuations.
4. What is the cost of installing a whole home surge protector?
The cost of installing a whole home surge protector can vary depending on the size of your home and the specific model of the surge protector. Generally, the investment ranges from $300 to $700, including professional installation.
5. Are there maintenance requirements for surge protectors?
Whole-home surge protectors require minimal maintenance. However, they should be checked periodically, usually during your annual electrical inspection, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
6. Does installing a surge protector affect my generator’s warranty?
Installing a surge protector does not affect your generator’s warranty. Many manufacturers recommend using surge protectors to protect their equipment and enhance overall safety and reliability.