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

Nathan was wonderful. I had no water and he came out even after normal working hours. Explained everything thoroughly. He was very knowledgeable.

Marie Hale

2 days ago

Kendall was awesome. Friendly and helpful. Made the icy repair quick.

Brian Kingston

2 days ago

Kendall was professional, efficient, and courteous. I enjoyed his ability to that about the issues so I could understand.

LACY KRONE

2 days ago

Updated Review 1/28/2026 Still a 5 star ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Nathan is super kind and thorough we had a plumbing issue from a remodel that we did. He diagnosed it and we will potentially move forward with repairs. Updated Review 10/01/2025 Still a 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Kendall came out today to quote the installation of an electric charger outdoors for our vehicle. Great attitude, respectful and very friendly. We had some other electrical issues we wanted checked. He was able to start the work today. Very pleased with his work ethic. Updated Review 5/15/24! Still a 5 ⭐️ We had LJ, Antonio and Bruce come to the house for maintenance. Customer service is great and they are very thorough. They had me walk with them as they went through the house to go over any questions or concerns we may have had. Customer service is top notch! We had a new TRANE HVAC system installed in our home and cleaning maintenance on our unit in the shed. Every employee that I have talked with has been very kind and knowledgeable. You can tell this is a good company to work for it shows in their employees! Thanks Chris and Brittany for great service and sending the right people here!

C C

2 days ago

Kail Ring resolved what thankfully turned out to be a minor issue that was causing one of our heat pumps to not work during this extreme cold weather… He was professional kind, efficient, knowledgeable, And communicate communicated the problem and the solution extremely well! Ted’s delivers professionally and excellently once again! … Well Done, Kail!

Dave Cline

3 days ago

Grant is very nice and professional. He explains everything. He takes pictures of places you can't see to show you what he's fixing. He remembers the small things.

Sumeka Johnson

3 days ago

Kendall was great! Prompt service (actually early) on short notice, through documentation and fully explained everything to give me the right options. Appreciated his candor and professionalism!

ScottLaura Overton

3 days ago

Very professional. Explained everything very well. Was not pushy with services that needed to be done. Highly recommend.

Larry Harris

4 days ago

Waiting for a motor to come in so it can be installed in the air handler.. it is 21 degrees this morning and we are doing the best we can to stay warm . Hope it comes in today and it gets installed. Cold weather expected all weekend. Ivan was nice and was very knowledgeable..

ronnie shepard

6 days ago

Ted’s Plumbing and Electric gave me superb service. Kendall was awesome and very professional. He explained everything he was doing to me. He told me how each component works. He was very thorough. I will continue to use Ted’s for my HVAC needs.

Victor Moore

6 days ago

We had a massive water leak at 7:00 pm two nights ago, literally right after having our crawl space professionally encapsulated. We made one phone call to Ted’s and Nathan and Levi were there within an hour. Not only did they get there quickly, they also shared multiple options with me and were able to get my water back on in no time. I have them coming back in two weeks to install a water filtration system. Thank you Levi and Nathan for the 5 star experience.

Jenny Hayes

1 week ago

Victor Moore

1 week ago

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Your home deserves top-quality care from experts who prioritize your comfort and safety. Whether you need a fast repair, a system upgrade, or routine maintenance, our skilled team is here to deliver reliable solutions with unmatched professionalism. We take the time to understand your needs and provide services that enhance efficiency, performance, and long-term savings. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, we ensure every job is done right the first time. Experience the difference of expert service—contact us today to schedule your appointment!

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