How to Protect Appliances From Power Outages and Power Failures

Snowstorms, high winds, and over usage of a power facility can all cause power failures. In our technology-driven world, we have come to rely on electricity to get us through the day. Electronics can be ruined when the power flickers on and off. Because we rely on so many tools and appliances that use electricity, we must protect them from these imminent power failures. Read on to find out ways to protect your valuable belongings.

Use a Surge Protector

You need to protect your home and belongings from power surges. One of the easiest ways to do this is by plugging appliances and electronics into power strips that have a built-in surge protector. These power strips have a fuse that will fail in a voltage spike and protect the appliance by cutting off its power.

Whole House Surge Protector

Additional protection for a home includes a whole-house surge protector. These surge protectors are inserted in the main electrical panel and protect the whole house if there is a power surge.

Meter-Mounted Surge Protection

Power companies may be able to provide the most robust protection of all—a surge protector that is mounted along the incoming electrical line just before the meter. This kind of work must be completed by a licensed electrician and comply with the local power company's regulations.

Use GFCI Outlets Throughout the House

GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets are often installed in kitchens and bathrooms. In newer homes, they are required. These are the electrical outlets with the red and black buttons that read "test" and "reset" on them. They monitor the amount of electricity flowing in and out of them and shut off if the electricity exceeds a certain amount, thus protecting the appliances and electronics that are plugged in.

Use an Uninterruptible Power Supply

Sometimes, electronics can be hooked up to a power strip which provides an uninterruptible power supply. This power strip contains a backup battery, and if there are any problems with incoming voltage, the battery turns on, allowing consistent power flow and uninterrupted service. This option is especially helpful for computers or other electronics that hold important work or financial information.

Upgrade the Air Conditioning Unit

Upgrading an air conditioning unit to save your appliances and electronics from power surges may seem strange. The truth is, older air conditioning units tend to restart several times per day. This causes the current in a building to increase, therefore increasing the possibility of a power surge occurring. Newer air conditioning units are more efficient and do not require as much energy to operate. There will be less excess power in circulation when they restart, therefore reducing the chance for power surges.

Check the Wiring in Home

Damaged or exposed wires cause an interruption of current and offer little resistance. This then leads to a greater chance of a power surge, especially to the outlet which they are plugged into. If you aren't sure if you have faulty wiring, listen for buzzing sounds or vibrations that come from outlets. Another sign is visible burn marks or burning smells coming from the outlet. If you have any of these signs, have the outlets looked at right away.

Protect your home and belongings by investing in these surge protectors. A small investment now can save you thousands in the future.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes