Over the last few years working in the Hopewell community, we have noticed what appears to be an increase in power-related issues, including brownouts, voltage fluctuations, and power surges. These events can be especially hard on heating and cooling equipment, including air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and newer high-efficiency HVAC systems.
Years ago, most homeowners thought about surge protection only for computers. Today, that’s no longer the case. Modern homes are filled with equipment that relies on sensitive electronic components and computer boards. Your HVAC system, televisions, refrigerators, dishwashers, dryers, ovens, garage door openers, and many other household appliances all contain electronics that can be damaged by sudden changes in voltage.
Your HVAC system is particularly vulnerable. Today’s condensers, furnaces, and air handlers often utilize sophisticated control boards, inverter technology, and communicating electronics. A single power surge or repeated brownout can damage these components, leading to expensive repairs or even premature equipment replacement. In some cases, the damage isn’t immediate—it gradually shortens the life of the equipment until a failure occurs months later.
The good news is that protecting your investment is relatively inexpensive. A surge protector installed at the outdoor condenser can help protect one of the most expensive systems in your home. Adding a whole-home surge protector at your main electrical panel provides another layer of protection for your HVAC equipment, appliances, and electronics throughout the house. While no surge protection device can guarantee complete protection from every electrical event, it can significantly reduce the risk of costly damage.
Power surges and voltage fluctuations can occur at any time of the year due to utility switching, equipment failures, downed power lines, or lightning strikes. However, during the summer months—particularly July and August—afternoon thunderstorms become more frequent, increasing the likelihood of power disturbances.
Considering the investment most homeowners have in their heating and cooling systems, appliances, and electronics, surge protection is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make. Spending a few hundred dollars today could save you thousands of dollars in repairs tomorrow.
If you’re unsure whether your home or HVAC system has adequate surge protection, ask a qualified HVAC or electrical professional to inspect your system and recommend the appropriate level of protection.
Protect your comfort. Protect your home. Protect your investment.
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