Heavy snow, intense thunderstorms, and unpredictable weather can wreak havoc on home electrical systems. Sudden power surges and outages put your appliances, HVAC, and essential home systems at risk. In Denver, late-season snowstorms often bring down tree branches, knocking out power lines, while high winds and lightning strikes add to the danger.
Without the right precautions, these electrical spikes can lead to costly damage—or even leave you in the dark when you need power the most. Here’s how to protect your home’s electrical system before the next big storm.
What Causes Power Surges During Storms?
Power surges from storms happen in an instant, but the damage lasts much longer. Sudden voltage spikes overload home electrical systems, frying appliances, damaging outlets, and even starting fires.
- Frequent Power On/Off Cycles: Storms trigger rolling blackouts and momentary power losses. Every time electricity flickers, voltage fluctuates unpredictably, weakening electrical components in refrigerators, HVAC systems, and water heaters. Repeated surges shorten the lifespan of household electronics.
- Lightning Strikes and Electrical Overloads: A lightning strike near a power line can send millions of volts surging through the grid. That energy has to go somewhere, and unprotected homes absorb the excess power. Even when lightning doesn’t strike directly, nearby strikes create voltage spikes that overwhelm electrical systems in an instant.
The Role of Circuit Breakers and Surge Protectors
Many homeowners assume circuit breakers provide full protection against power surges, but breakers and surge protectors serve different purposes. Knowing how they work makes a big difference when storms hit.
- Circuit Breakers vs. Surge Protectors: Circuit breakers shut down power when too much current flows through a circuit, preventing electrical overloads. However, they don’t stop sudden voltage spikes from lightning or grid malfunctions. Surge protectors act as a buffer, absorbing excess energy before it reaches appliances.
- Surge Protectors: The Shock Absorbers: Whole-home surge protectors, installed at the electrical panel, intercept dangerous voltage spikes before they spread through the home. These devices prevent damage to expensive electronics, HVAC systems, and major appliances.
Protect Your Home from Power Surges
Storm-proofing an electrical system means taking the right steps to block power surges before they cause damage.
Install Whole-Home Surge Protection
A whole-home surge protector provides the best defense against electrical surges, shielding everything connected to the home’s wiring.
- Why Whole-Home Surge Protectors Matter: Unlike power strips that only protect single devices, whole-home surge protectors safeguard the entire electrical system. This includes hardwired appliances like air conditioners, furnaces, and refrigerators, which can’t be plugged into a surge strip. Protection at this level prevents expensive repairs and replacements.
- Professional Installation Makes a Difference: Whole-home surge protectors must be installed at the main electrical panel to ensure proper grounding. A licensed electrician determines the correct voltage capacity and installs the device according to electrical codes. Proper installation ensures the system works effectively when storms strike.
Invest in Backup Power Solutions
Losing power during a storm disrupts daily life, but a backup power system keeps essential appliances running when the grid goes down.
- Whole-Home and Essential System Generators: Standby generators automatically kick in during an outage, keeping heating, refrigeration, and medical equipment running without interruption. Unlike portable generators, whole-home generators restore power seamlessly without the need for manual startup.
- Generac Generators: Generac generators provide reliable backup power, detecting outages and switching on automatically. These systems supply uninterrupted electricity, keeping homes safe and functional during storms.
Proper Use of Propane and Natural Gas
Alternative energy sources provide reliable backup power when the electrical grid fails.
- Why Propane and Natural Gas Matter: Propane and natural gas generators ensure critical appliances like furnaces and sump pumps stay operational during extended outages. These fuels provide a steady power source when other options aren’t available.
- Safety and Professional Installation: Improper installation of propane and natural gas systems creates risks like carbon monoxide leaks and fire hazards. Certified electricians and HVAC technicians ensure backup energy systems function safely and efficiently.
Avoiding Hazardous Temporary Fixes
Some homeowners turn to quick fixes during power outages, but certain temporary solutions come with serious risks.
- The Dangers of Space Heaters: Space heaters provide warmth during outages, but improper use increases fire hazards and electrical overloads. Plugging multiple heaters into a single outlet raises the chances of overheating circuits and starting fires.
- Temporary Fixes vs. Long-Term Safety: Investing in a permanent backup power system eliminates the need for unsafe solutions. Whole-home surge protection, upgraded electrical panels, and standby generators provide reliable protection and peace of mind.
Enhancing Your Home’s Electrical Infrastructure
Upgrading an outdated electrical system strengthens protection against surges and outages.
Electrical Panel Upgrades
Older electrical panels struggle to keep up with modern energy demands, increasing the risk of power failures.
- Outdated Panels Create Safety Risks: Aging electrical panels make homes more vulnerable to power surges. Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, and buzzing sounds from outlets signal that an electrical panel isn’t distributing power safely.
- Modern Panels Handle Higher Energy Loads: Newer electrical panels accommodate today’s energy needs and integrate surge protection features. Upgrading keeps the system stable during storms and prevents voltage spike damage.
Single Circuit Transfer Switches for Furnaces
Keeping the furnace running during winter storms is critical for home safety and comfort.
- Ensuring Heat Stays On: A single circuit transfer switch connects a furnace to a backup generator, ensuring heat remains available even when the main power supply is down. This dedicated switch allows the furnace to function without affecting other appliances.
- Why Professional Installation Matters: Expert installation guarantees safe operation and compliance with electrical codes. A proper setup prevents backfeeding, which can harm utility workers and damage the electrical system.
When to Call in the Professionals
Certain warning signs indicate a home’s electrical system needs expert attention to prevent failures.
- Warning Signs to Watch For: Flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, burning smells from outlets, and sudden power losses suggest electrical hazards. Ignoring these signs can lead to costly repairs and dangerous failures.
- How Experts Keep Homes Safe: Licensed electricians identify weaknesses in the electrical system and recommend solutions to prevent future issues. Inspections catch outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and inadequate surge protection before serious problems arise.
Storm-Ready Electrical Solutions—Done! Has You Covered
Power surges and outages can strike without warning, putting your home’s electrical system at risk. Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric provides expert whole-home surge protection, panel upgrades, and backup power solutions to keep your home safe and running, no matter the weather.
- Proven Expertise – Our electricians specialize in protecting home systems from unpredictable power disruptions.
- 24/7 Availability – Electrical emergencies don’t wait, and neither do we. Our licensed professionals are always ready to help.
- Seamless Protection – From surge protection to generator installation, we offer solutions tailored to your home’s needs.
Call Done! Today
Protect your home before the next storm hits. Call (833) 539-9153 or schedule online for expert electrical upgrades and repairs.
Ask about our 1st Service Club for exclusive discounts and priority service on all electrical upgrades.
