Surge Protection: Future Proofing Your Home Against Electricity Instability

While we might be enjoying a respite from load-shedding, homeowners are facing another continuing challenge – the prevalence of power surges. 

The consequences of these intermittent power disruptions are costly, with a staggering 60% increase in claims for destruction to people’s property due to power surges reported by short-term insurers in 2022.

This trend has prompted insurers to take a proactive stance, with many now mandating that homeowners have a surge protection device (SPD) installed on the distribution board in order to be eligible for claims related to power surge damage. 

It’s a stark reminder that the responsibility for safeguarding our homes against the dangers of electrical fluctuations is squarely on our shoulders.

Understanding the Threat of Power Surges

Power surges, also known as transient voltage spikes or voltage transients, are brief, high-amplitude increases in voltage that occur on an electrical power line or circuit. These spikes can be characterised by their lightning-fast duration, typically lasting only a few microseconds or milliseconds, but their impact can be devastating.

When a power surge occurs, it can wreak havoc on sensitive electronic equipment and appliances in our homes, from televisions and computers to refrigerators and air conditioners. The surge of electricity can overwhelm the internal components, leading to permanent damage or even complete failure of the affected devices.

The primary culprit behind these power surges is the intermittent nature of the electricity supply. When power is suddenly restored after an outage, the sudden influx of electricity can trigger a surge, putting your home’s electrical systems at risk.

Adding an SPD to Your Distribution Board

To safeguard your home and protect your valuable investments, the installation of a surge protection device (SPD) has become a crucial step. The distribution board (DB board) is the central hub for the distribution of electrical power throughout a building, making it the most strategic location to install an SPD.

An SPD is designed to divert and dissipate the excess electrical energy generated by a power surge, shielding our connected devices and appliances from harm. By intercepting the surge before it can reach our equipment, these devices act as a crucial line of defence, preventing costly repairs or replacements.

When selecting an SPD, it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your home’s electrical system and can handle the specific surge characteristics of your region. Consulting with a qualified electrician can ensure that the SPD is properly installed and configured to provide maximum protection.

The Importance of Checking Your Insurance Policy

As insurers increasingly demand the installation of SPDs as a prerequisite for coverage, it’s critical to review the fine print of your home insurance policy. Many providers now require homeowners to have a surge protection device in place, or they may not be able to honour claims related to power surge damage.

Failing to comply with these new requirements could leave homeowners vulnerable and financially responsible for the repairs or replacements of their damaged electronics and appliances. It’s a sobering reality that highlights the importance of proactively addressing the surge protection needs of our homes.

How Can We Help?

As we navigate the unpredictable nature of South Africa’s power landscape, the installation of a surge protection device has become a necessity, not a luxury. 

The safety and security of our homes are paramount, and the installation of a surge protection device is a small investment that can yield immense dividends in the long run. 

Talk to our team of experts to find the right insurance policy for your unique requirements.