If you need surge protector installation in Orange, VA, W.A. Sherman Company is here to help. In January 2024, Virginia adopted the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC), which added surge protection as a residential requirement.
Surge protectors make homes safer and prevent common electrical system damage. We can help safeguard your home with a new installation or a more advanced surge protector replacement. Our team also provides surge protector maintenance and repair services that help to maximize your investment.
Contact us at W.A. Sherman Company with any questions about surge protector installation in Orange.
Surge Protection for Homes in Orange
There are different surge protection types available, and those used for residential applications include Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. The NEC requires all new homes to have a Type 2 surge protection device (SPD) at a minimum.
Type 2 SPDs function on the load side of the electrical panel, between the panel and the home’s wiring. This protects against internal surges, such as those created by heat pumps, air conditioners, generators, and power tools. It also protects against external surges, including indirect lightning strikes.
Type 1 SPDs generally function on the service side, between the panel and the grid. That approach provides even better protection against external surges, including direct lightning strikes and bad power from the grid. While such events aren’t common, they can be devastating when they occur. You have the option of installing both a Type 1 and Type 2 SPD, which we can discuss with you during a consultation.
Type 3 SPDs provide local protection for your devices. Common examples include the surge protector power strips you use for your computing and home entertainment equipment. While you don’t generally need an electrician for those, we can consult on which products are best for your home. We also install outlets with integrated Type 3 protection, USB ports, and other features.
There are many potential benefits to having a whole-house surge protector:
- Protection against lightning strikes
- Home insurance premium discounts
- Reduced electrical maintenance costs
- Lower risk of fires and other electrical hazards
- Longer lifespans for appliances and electronic devices
Signs You Need a Surge Protector
It’s important to note that you shouldn’t wait for signs to install a surge protector. Surge protection is a good investment for all homes because it will typically pay for itself over time. That said, surge protection may be even more important if you have made big investments in electronics and major appliances.
Consider these other signs you should install a surge protector:
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Frequent severe thunderstorms
- Available home insurance discounts
- Reoccurring tripped circuit breakers
Our Surge Protector Services
Our electricians can add surge protection to your existing electrical panel. If you have an older panel, we can upgrade it and add surge protection at the same time. We generally recommend proactive surge protector replacement after a decade.
Most surge protectors have indicator lights to alert you when they need repair or replacement. You should also schedule surge protector repair if you notice any visible damage, such as burn marks, melted plastic, or cracks.
Surge protectors typically don’t require routine maintenance. What we recommend is scheduling a whole-home electrical inspection at least every several years and have us perform maintenance as needed. As part of that service, we’ll check and clean your surge protection devices.
You should also schedule a surge protector inspection whenever the device triggers. This is important because surge protectors degrade through use. We’ll also verify that there wasn’t an internal electrical issue contributing to the event.
Why Choose Us?
Our company has over 100 years of experience providing electrical services. We are available for same-day surge protector repair appointments and have electricians on call 24/7 for emergencies.
You can count on flexible scheduling for surge protector maintenance. For new installations and surge protector replacement, we offer free estimates and financing on approved credit.
W.A. Sherman Company is the trusted and local choice for surge protector installation in Orange. To schedule an in-home consultation, call today, or book your appointment online.
