How Power Surges Can Damage Your Appliances (And How to Protect Them)

Power surges are sudden spikes in electrical voltage that can wreak havoc on your home appliances. While some surges are small and go unnoticed, repeated exposure can lead to costly repairs or even complete appliance failure. Understanding the causes of power surges and how to protect your appliances can save you money and extend the lifespan of your household devices.

What Causes Power Surges?

Power surges can originate from both external and internal sources. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Lightning Strikes - When lightning strikes near power lines, it can send a massive voltage spike through your home's electrical system, damaging appliances instantly.

• Utility Grid Issues – Power outages, downed power lines, or fluctuations from the utility company can result in sudden voltage spikes.

• High-Powered Appliances – Large appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners cycle on and off, causing small internal power surges that gradually wear down electronics.

• Faulty Wiring – Outdated or damaged wiring can cause inconsistent electrical flow, increasing the risk of surges.

• Power Strip Overloads – Plugging too many devices into one power strip can lead to surges and potential electrical hazards.

  
  

How Power Surges Affect Your Appliances

Even minor power surges can cause damage over time, reducing the efficiency and lifespan of your appliances. Here are some common signs that an appliance may have been damaged by a power surge:

• Frequent Resets – If your appliance keeps resetting or turning off unexpectedly, it could indicate internal damage.

• Burnt Odor or Scorch Marks – Visible burn marks on plugs or a strange smell can signal electrical damage.

• Flickering or Dimming Lights – Surges can impact your home's electrical system, causing lights to flicker when appliances are in use.

• Reduced Performance – If an appliance isn’t functioning as efficiently as before, internal components may have been affected.

• Complete Failure – In severe cases, a large power surge can instantly short-circuit an appliance, rendering it useless.

How to Protect Your Appliances from Power Surges

While power surges are often unavoidable, there are several ways to safeguard your appliances from potential damage:

1. Use Surge Protectors

A quality surge protector can prevent excessive voltage from reaching your appliances. Choose models with high joule ratings for maximum protection, and replace them periodically as they wear out over time.

2. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector

A whole-house surge protector is installed at your electrical panel and safeguards all appliances from external power surges. This is especially useful in areas prone to lightning storms and power fluctuations.

3. Unplug Appliances During Storms

If severe weather is approaching, unplug sensitive electronics and appliances to prevent damage from lightning-induced surges.

4. Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring

If your home has outdated or faulty wiring, consider an upgrade to improve electrical stability and reduce the risk of power surges.

5. Avoid Overloading Circuits

Distribute appliances across multiple outlets instead of relying on a single power strip. This reduces the strain on your electrical system and minimizes surge risks.

6. Schedule Regular Appliance Maintenance

Routine maintenance ensures that appliances operate efficiently and reduces the likelihood of internal power surges caused by faulty components.

When to Call a Professional?

If your appliances have been affected by a power surge, don’t wait until the damage worsens. A professional appliance repair technician can assess the issue and determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Additionally, if you suspect faulty wiring or need a whole-house surge protector installed, consulting a licensed electrician is a smart move.

Protect Your Appliances with Expert Help

Power surges can be unpredictable, but protecting your appliances doesn’t have to be complicated. At Santa Cruz Appliance Repair, we provide expert appliance maintenance and repair services to keep your household running smoothly. If a power surge has damaged your appliances, give us a call  or visit our website to schedule a service.

Don’t let power surges shorten your appliances’ lifespan—take action today!