In today’s world, our homes are packed with sensitive electronics and appliances – from TVs and computers to fridges, smart devices, and even solar inverters. Unfortunately, all of these are vulnerable to sudden spikes in voltage, commonly known as power surges. These surges can happen due to lightning strikes, grid switching, or faults in your neighbourhood’s electrical system.
The best way to protect your home and appliances is by installing a Surge Protection Device (SPD), also called a surge arrester, directly on your DB Board (Distribution Board).
At OG Electrical Services we have observed an increase in calls for repairs to home appliances and electrical fittings after properties are hit by power surges or lighting strikes. We have also seen an increase in the number of insurance companies who now require that households need to have installed surge arresters and have a valid Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) in order for their policies to remain valid.
OG Electrical has written this blog post to help you, the homeowner, understand what you need to do in order to have all this in place.
What is a power surge?
A power surge is a sudden and significant increase in voltage that surpasses the standard level of electricity flowing through electrical devices in a home or a business. These spikes in electrical energy can be caused by various factors, including lightning strikes, faulty wiring, or the operations of high-power electrical devices.
When power surges happen, they can damage or even destroy electronic equipment and appliances, making surge protectors an essential safeguard against these unpredictable events. Surge protectors work by diverting the excess voltage away from the connected devices, thereby minimizing the risk of damage caused by a power surge.
Causes of power surge
Power surges can occur for various reasons. The most common cause is lightning strikes, which can send a massive surge through power lines. Other causes include downed power lines, sudden changes in electricity demand, and equipment failure.
Additionally, operating large appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators can create voltage fluctuations. These temporary surges can trip a circuit breaker or damage sensitive electronics. It’s essential to monitor your electrical system and consider surge protection.
Common Types of Electrical Surges
Electrical surges fall into two main categories: external and internal.
External surges generally originate from outside your home. These include lightning strikes or power grid issues.
Internal surges are caused by your appliances themselves. For example, when a motor in a refrigerator turns on, it can create a brief spike in voltage.
Both types can adversely affect your devices, leading to various outcomes from minor annoyances to major failures. Using a surge protector helps mitigate these risks.
Potential Effects on Home Appliances
The effects of surge damage on appliances can be severe. Common signs include:
- Appliances not turning on
- Frequent tripping of breakers
- Devices malfunctioning or displaying error messages
High-voltage surges can lead to burnt-out components or complete appliance failure. Sensitive electronics, like computers and televisions, are especially vulnerable.
Choosing reliable protection, such as surge protectors or whole-home systems, can help. At OG Electrical Services, our licensed electricians guide you in selecting the best protection methods for your home or business. Their expertise covers everything from simple outlet updates to comprehensive electrical solutions.
Identifying Surge Damage in Appliances
Recognizing surge damage in appliances is crucial for maintaining their efficiency and longevity. You should be aware of the signs of damage and understand how it specifically affects your refrigerators, ovens, and air conditioners.
Signs of Surge Damage
When appliances experience surge damage, several symptoms may emerge. Common indicators include:
- Tripped circuit breakers: If your circuit breaker trips frequently without obvious reasons, it may signal an underlying issue.
- Appliances resetting: Sudden resets or failures in digital displays often point to electrical issues.
- Unusual noises: Buzzing or humming from appliances can indicate internal damage.
- Burnt smells: Foul odours from your devices warrant immediate inspection.
Being attentive to these signs can help you address problems before they escalate. If you suspect surge damage, seeking assistance from professionals like OG Electrical Services will ensure a comprehensive assessment.
What is an SPD?
An SPD is an electrical safety device designed to divert excess voltage away from your electrical circuits, ensuring that your appliances and wiring don’t get fried during a surge. Think of it as a safety valve that shields your home’s electrical system from sudden spikes.
Why is it Important?
1. Protects Your Appliances and Electronics
Without surge protection, one power spike could destroy expensive appliances such as TVs, fridges, washing machines, and computers. SPDs prevent this by clamping down the surge before it reaches your devices.
2. Insurance Companies Now Require It
Most insurance companies in South Africa have made it a requirement that homes must have an SPD installed and a valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC). Increasingly, insurers are declining claims for damage caused by power surges if no surge arrester is in place.
That means if a lightning storm or power fault damages your appliances, you may not get a cent back from your insurer unless you can prove that your DB Board was fitted with surge protection.
3. Keeps Your Home Compliant with Regulations
If you ever plan to sell your home or renew your insurance, you’ll need a valid CoC. Installing an SPD ensures your electrical system is not only safe but also legally compliant.
4. Peace of Mind During Load Shedding & Power Cuts
With South Africa’s ongoing load shedding and frequent grid disturbances, power surges have become more common than ever. An SPD provides peace of mind knowing that every time the power comes back, your appliances are protected.
Final Word
Installing a Surge Protection Device (SPD) on your DB Board is no longer just a good idea – it’s becoming a must-have for every homeowner. Not only does it protect your valuable appliances and electronics, but it also ensures that your insurance claims won’t be rejected due to non-compliance.
If your home does not yet have an SPD installed, now is the time to act. Contact a qualified electrician to install one and issue an updated Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for your property.
👉 Don’t wait until it’s too late – safeguard your home, protect your appliances, and stay insured.
OG Electrical Services is a Domestic and Commercial Electrical services company that specialises in Appliance Installation, Maintenance and Repairs, including general electrical repair work. We install, fix and service all brands and types of electrical appliances.
Contact us on +27 73 378 6966 and email info@ogelectrical.co.za Read more about our Electrical Services on the following link https://www.ogelectrical.co.za/electrical-installations-coc/