What Is a Power Surge and Why Is It Dangerous?

A power surge is a sudden spike in electrical voltage that can damage or destroy sensitive electronics and appliances. Surges can be caused by lightning, power outages, or large appliances cycling on and off. Without protection, even small surges can shorten the lifespan of your devices.

What Does a Surge Protector Do?

A surge protector blocks or redirects excess voltage away from your electronics during a power spike. It helps prevent damage to TVs, computers, appliances, and other plugged-in equipment. Surge protectors offer an added layer of defense beyond your home’s circuit breakers.

What’s the Difference Between a Power Strip and a Surge Protector?

While they look similar, a power strip simply provides multiple outlets, whereas a surge protector includes built-in technology to stop voltage spikes. Not all power strips offer surge protection, so it’s important to check the labeling. Look for a joule rating to ensure it offers real protection.

Should I Install Whole-Home Surge Protection?

Yes, whole-home surge protectors safeguard your entire electrical system from both internal and external surges. They’re especially useful in areas prone to storms or frequent utility fluctuations. Installed at your main panel, they protect everything from your HVAC to kitchen appliances.

Can Surge Protectors Wear Out Over Time?

Yes, surge protectors degrade with each power spike they absorb. Once their internal components wear out, they no longer offer protection—even if the outlet still works. It’s a good idea to replace them every few years or after a major surge event.

How Do I Know If My Surge Protector Is Still Working?

Many surge protectors have indicator lights that show whether protection is active. If the light is off—or if the unit was exposed to a large surge—it may no longer be effective. Replace any device that no longer shows a working status.

Do I Need Both Plug-In and Whole-Home Surge Protection?

For the best protection, yes—whole-home surge protection handles large surges, while plug-in protectors shield sensitive electronics from smaller spikes. This layered approach offers comprehensive defense across your home. It’s especially important for expensive or irreplaceable electronics.

Can I Install a Whole-Home Surge Protector Myself?

Whole-home units must be installed directly to your electrical panel and should only be handled by a licensed electrician. Improper installation can be dangerous and may void warranties or insurance coverage. Professional installation ensures safe and code-compliant protection.

Durham Whole-Home Surge Protection

Protect Your Appliances and Electronics From Unexpected Power Surges

Power surges can happen in an instant, but the damage they leave behind can be costly. Whole-home surge protection is a smart investment that guards everything from your refrigerator to your HVAC system. At Ted’s HVAC, Plumbing, & Electrical, we install high-quality surge protection for homes throughout Durham. Whether it’s caused by a lightning strike or a utility issue, we make sure your home is prepared. Call today and let our team help keep your electrical system safe.

Our Surge Protection Services

When it comes to surge protection, we offer more than just one solution. Our team evaluates your home’s unique electrical needs to recommend and install the right system. From protection upgrades to ongoing support, we’re here to make sure your home stays protected.

Whole-Home Surge Protector Installation — Installing a whole-home surge protector helps shield all your appliances and electronics from damaging voltage spikes. We hardwire the device directly into your electrical panel for maximum coverage and safety.
Surge Protector Replacement — Surge protectors wear down over time, especially after major surges. We replace aging or damaged units to restore full protection to your home’s electrical system.
Electrical Panel Upgrades — Outdated panels can leave your home more vulnerable to power surges. We upgrade your panel as needed to ensure your surge protection is fully supported.
Lightning Protection Add-Ons — Direct lightning strikes can overwhelm standard surge protectors. We offer additional protection options to help your system handle even the most severe surges.
Surge Protection Inspections — Regular inspections help ensure your surge protector is still working properly. We test and evaluate the system so you can feel confident your home is safe.

To see what Ted's can do for you, call us and schedule today!

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919-823-7344

Why Choose Ted’s For Whole-Home Surge Protectors?

Ted’s HVAC, Plumbing, & Electrical offers more than just reliable surge protection; we provide peace of mind knowing your home’s electrical system is in good hands. With years of experience serving the Durham area, we understand the unique needs of local homes and businesses. Our team goes beyond installation, offering ongoing support and advice to ensure your home remains protected from electrical surges. In some cases, especially during frequent outages, solutions like whole home generators can add an extra layer of protection. Trust us for quality work and a personalized approach to safeguarding your home.

Licensed and Insured Professionals — Our team is fully licensed and insured, providing a safe and reliable service every time. We follow industry standards to ensure the highest quality of work in your home.
Tailored Solutions — Every home is different, and we take the time to assess your specific needs. Our tailored surge protection solutions provide the right fit for your home’s electrical system.
Comprehensive Electrical Knowledge — We offer in-depth knowledge of all things electrical, from surge protection to complete system overhauls. You can rely on our team to provide expert guidance and support for all your electrical needs.
Top-Notch Equipment — We use only the highest quality surge protection equipment available. Our products are designed to withstand even the toughest electrical surges, offering lasting protection for your home.
Thorough Follow-Up Services — We don’t just install and leave. After installation, we follow up with you to ensure everything is running smoothly and offer advice for ongoing maintenance and care.

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What Our Customers Say About Us

4.9 Google Rating

Kendall was very professional and provided outstanding service. He invited me to watch and learn about what he was checking and repairing for both the heater and AC unit.

Ben Hoxie

4 days ago

Always on time. Very knowledgeable and courteous technicians. They keep our equipment running efficiently. Highly recommend them.

Ronald Perkins

4 days ago

The service i receive is always professional excellence. I would recommend Ted's to anyone.

Caroline Dinkins

4 days ago

Ivan was very pleasant to speak with and he did an excellent job of explaining the issue. I am more than happy with the service.

Sandy Brady

5 days ago

The representative from Ted’s was polite and seemed knowledgeable. He was doing an inspection of our plumbing system which included flushing the hot water heater.

Diane Villwock

6 days ago

Prompt professional service from Kendall today. Kendall explained our options and left us with the information we need to more forward. Thank you.

Francis Bourdon

1 week ago

The service was great. Although our mini split had several things that needed to be replaced Mr. Gonzalez and Ken were very professional to find out what was going on with it and solve the problem efficiently.

Porchia Ball

1 week ago

I Received Top Notch service from Nathan B. This young man is very professional, polite, and knowledgeable. He has a very bright future in the plumbing industry. He meticulously walked around my house and checked all faucets, under the sink pipes, toilets, washer machine connection, and flushed my tankless gas water heater. He also fixed the water pressure valve in one of my sinks. All after driving 1.5hr to get to my location. I am extremely satisfied with his service and attention to detail. Looking forward to having my future service needs met by him and the rest of the Ted’s Team.

L J

1 week ago

Great communication before the appointment, through the visit and then afterwards. The transparency while onsite was something I’ve never seen before from an HVAC company. Chris and Cameron could not have taken better care of us.

Bobby Autry

1 week ago

James was very thorough and polite. He even let me follow him around in doing the maintenance checks for our HVAC systems.

Greg Parrott

1 week ago

Kendall was excellent and detailed with explaining my furnace situation and providing me with an honest assessment. I also appreciate Wes coming and sharing his knowledge and insights on the options I'm facing to resolve my heating issues. Thanks for great customer service!

Sauda Zahra

2 weeks ago

Tom was very thorough and took his time in reviewing and explaining our options for an HVAC replacement system. No pressure, just pleasant conversation as we identified the right system for us. We’re new to Ted’s for service and so far we’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Thank you.

Elaine Graham

2 weeks ago

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