What this covers
Whole-home surge protection is a surge protective device wired to the main panel, or at the meter, that diverts voltage spikes to ground before they travel down the branch circuits. Spikes come from lightning nearby, utility switching and large motors cycling inside the house, and they wear down the electronics in furnaces, refrigerators, washers and televisions. The electrician checks the grounding electrode system first, because the device is only as good as its path to ground, then mounts the unit close to the panel with the shortest leads possible, connects it through a dedicated breaker, and confirms the status indicator. Point-of-use strips add a second layer.
When to call
- An area with frequent thunderstorms or a recent strike nearby.
- Electronics or appliance control boards that have failed without a clear cause.
- A new heat pump, air conditioner, induction range or other appliance with sensitive electronics.
- A generator or EV charger being added to the house.
What to expect
- Check groundingThe grounding electrode and bonding are inspected and corrected, since the device depends on them.
- MountThe surge device is mounted beside the panel or at the meter with the leads kept short.
- ConnectIt is wired through a dedicated breaker and the connection torqued and checked.
- ConfirmThe status light is verified and you are shown what it means when it changes.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Does it stop a direct lightning strike?
No single device does. A whole-home unit greatly reduces the damage from nearby strikes and everyday surges, and it is the first layer in a system that includes good grounding and point-of-use protection.
How do I know it is still working?
The unit has an indicator light. It changes or goes out when the device has absorbed enough surges to need replacement, which is a quick swap.
Do I still need power strips?
For computers, home theater and other sensitive gear, yes. The panel device clips the big spikes and the strips handle what gets past it.
Related: Electrical panel upgrades · Standby generator installation · Lightning damage repair · All electrical
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.