Power surges can strike without warning, and the damage they cause can be both immediate and expensive. At Ogburn Electric Company, we’ve seen how one unexpected surge can destroy appliances, damage electrical systems, and lead to costly repairs. Many homeowners ask us whether a whole home surge protector is worth the investment—and our answer is almost always yes.
In this post, we’ll explain how whole home surge protection works, why it matters, and what makes our team the right choice for installation. If you’re ready to protect your home, call us today at 336-924-5166 for a free consultation.
What Is a Whole Home Surge Protector?
A whole home surge protector is a device installed at your main electrical panel that acts as a gatekeeper against power surges. Unlike the plug-in surge protectors you might use behind your TV or computer, this system protects your entire electrical network. It catches excess voltage before it can move through your wiring and reach the devices and appliances you rely on every day.
Whole home surge protectors work silently in the background, safeguarding everything from your refrigerator and HVAC system to your smart TVs and computers. They’re designed to stop both external surges, like those from lightning or power grid issues, and internal ones caused by large appliances turning on and off.
How Does a Surge Protector Work?
Surge protectors detect spikes in voltage and redirect that excess energy safely into the ground. They monitor electrical flow in real-time and react instantly—often in less than a nanosecond. While smaller plug-in devices can help with specific electronics, they don’t offer the comprehensive protection that a panel-mounted solution provides.
By intercepting dangerous voltage before it moves through your wiring, a whole home surge protector minimizes the risk of overheating, fire, and equipment failure. It’s one of the smartest ways to strengthen your home’s electrical safety.
What Causes Power Surges?
Power surges are more common than many homeowners realize. While lightning strikes are an obvious cause, most surges are smaller and originate from everyday sources. Common causes include:
- Grid switching or utility service issues
- Downed power lines
- High-powered appliances like air conditioners cycling on and off
- Faulty or outdated wiring inside the home
Even if a surge doesn’t cause immediate damage, repeated exposure can shorten the lifespan of sensitive electronics and lead to long-term electrical issues.
Benefits of Whole House Surge Protection
Investing in whole house surge protection offers a wide range of benefits. When installed by a licensed electrician, this system provides:
- Protection for every device connected to your electrical system
- Reduced risk of damage from external and internal surges
- Extended lifespan for major appliances and electronics
- Increased home resale value
- Greater peace of mind during storms or utility disruptions
If your home has valuable electronics, a home office setup, or smart home systems, surge protection is especially important.
What to Expect During Installation
Installing a whole home surge protector is a fast and efficient process when handled by experienced professionals. We typically mount the device at your main electrical panel, ensuring it integrates seamlessly with your existing wiring. Our team walks you through the process, answers any questions, and ensures minimal disruption to your daily routine.
As licensed electricians in Winston-Salem, we follow all local codes and safety standards. Most installations take less than a day and offer protection for years to come.
Why Choose Ogburn Electric Company?
For more than 40 years, we’ve helped families in Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas keep their homes safe, efficient, and up to date. Our licensed and insured electricians bring decades of hands-on experience and a commitment to doing the job right the first time.
We believe in clear communication, transparent pricing, and treating our customers like neighbors—because that’s exactly what they are. Whether you need surge protection, panel upgrades, or full home rewiring, we offer dependable service backed by real expertise.
When you choose Ogburn Electric, you’re choosing a local company with deep roots and a reputation for excellence.
Is a Whole Home Surge Protector Worth It?
We believe it is. With the growing number of electronic devices in modern homes, the risk of surge damage is higher than ever. A whole home surge protector offers a cost-effective way to protect your investment, reduce stress, and increase your electrical safety.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help. Call Ogburn Electric Company today at 336-924-5166 to schedule a consultation or request your surge protector installation. Let’s keep your home safe—together.