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Why Whole-Home Surge Protection Is a Smart Move for NJ Homeowners
Summer in New Jersey brings sunny days, backyard fun — and powerful thunderstorms. But while most homeowners worry about power outages, the real hidden danger is what happens when the power comes back on.
That sudden spike in voltage, known as a power surge, can damage or destroy everything from your HVAC system to your laptop in the blink of an eye.
At Anderson Electric, we believe whole-home surge protection isn’t a luxury — it’s a smart investment in your home’s safety and long-term savings.
What Is a Power Surge?
A power surge is a brief spike in electrical voltage that flows through your home’s wiring. While it usually lasts less than a second, it can do long-lasting damage.
Common causes include:
- Lightning strikes near power lines
- Utility company grid switching
- Downed trees or power lines
- Malfunctioning appliances
Even minor surges can degrade electronics over time. A single powerful surge can destroy them instantly.
Why Plug-in Surge Protectors Aren’t Enough
You’ve probably used surge protector power strips for your TV or computer — and while they help, they only protect the devices plugged into them.
They don’t shield:
- Major appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator)
- HVAC systems
- Smart thermostats
- Garage door openers
- Built-in lighting systems
Whole-home surge protectors, on the other hand, are installed at your electrical panel, where they stop surges before they spread throughout your home.
💡 Read: “Is Your Electrical System Ready for Summer in NJ?” →
5 Reasons to Install a Whole-Home Surge Protector
1. Protect Expensive Electronics and Appliances
From your refrigerator to your EV charger, modern homes rely on sensitive electronics. One big surge could cost you thousands in replacements.
2. Prevent Data Loss
Many homeowners forget that power surges can wipe hard drives and corrupt data — including family photos, work files, and security footage.
3. Guard Against Summer Storms
New Jersey’s summer thunderstorms are unpredictable. One lightning strike nearby could travel through utility lines into your home.
4. Lower the Risk of Fire
In rare cases, surges can cause wires to overheat and ignite. A surge protector helps shut down the surge path before damage can occur.
5. Peace of Mind
With a professionally installed unit, you don’t have to worry about “Did I plug that into a surge protector?” It’s built in — for your whole house.
Do Surge Protectors Really Work?
Yes — especially when installed by a licensed electrician. A whole-home surge protector typically:
- Diverts excess voltage to your home’s grounding system
- Activates automatically during a surge
- Protects against both external and internal surges (like from a faulty appliance)
At Anderson Electric, we use top-rated models with fast clamping response times and multi-year warranties.
What Does Installation Involve?
Installing a whole-home surge protector is usually:
- Quick (typically 1–2 hours)
- Non-invasive (mounted near or inside your panel)
- Code-compliant
We’ll evaluate your current panel, install the unit, and test it — all in one visit. If needed, we’ll also recommend an electrical panel upgrade to support your home’s growing power demands.
Thinking about a panel upgrade too? Here are 5 signs you might need one →
Service Areas We Cover in New Jersey
Anderson Electric proudly installs whole-home surge protection in:
- Montclair
- Caldwell
- West Orange
- Livingston
- Verona
- Bloomfield
- And surrounding areas
FAQ: Surge Protection for NJ Homes
Does homeowner’s insurance cover surge damage?
Some policies cover it — but only after the damage occurs. A surge protector helps you avoid the claim (and deductible) altogether.
Can I install a whole-home surge protector myself?
No. This device connects directly to your electrical panel and requires a licensed electrician for safe, code-compliant installation.
Do I still need plug-in surge protectors?
Yes — for layered protection. A whole-home protector shields large surges, while plug-in strips guard sensitive devices like computers and routers.
How long do whole-home surge protectors last?
Typically 5–10 years, depending on the model and the number of surges they absorb. We offer models with indicator lights that show when replacement is needed.
Is surge protection required by code in New Jersey?
As of the 2020 NEC update, many new homes are required to have surge protection. For older homes, it's not mandatory — but highly recommended.
Protect Your Home the Smart Way
Storms and surges are unpredictable — but your protection doesn’t have to be.
If you're in New Jersey and ready to shield your home from summer hazards, trust Anderson Electric to install reliable whole-home surge protection that gives you peace of mind year-round.
