Ohio weather is changing. According to the NOAA State Climate Summary, the state has seen a significant rise in heavy rainfall events since the mid-1990s. With those storms often come more frequent lightning strikes—putting your home’s electrical system and valuable appliances at risk. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your home is by installing a whole house surge protector, your first line of defense against sudden power surges. In this post, we’ll explore how surge protection, leak detection devices, and backup systems can help you stay safe and avoid costly damage.
Whole House Surge Protectors for Electrical Safety
Have a licensed electrician install a whole house surge protector at the electrical panel. Power strips are still important and easy to install, but they only protect devices that are plugged into them. A whole house surge protector acts as your first line of defense against power surges from lightning or grid disruptions. They offer protection for appliances, HVAC systems, lights and other items in your home. While it may not offer 100% shielding, it will certainly mitigate potential damage (like frying the refrigerator).
Smart Water Leak Detection Devices
Water sensing devices can save you big money by alerting you to potential leaks. Detection devices can be placed by washing machines and hot water tanks, warning you of a potential water issue with an alarm. Many are capable of connecting to your smart phone, allowing you to be notified while away from home. Willing to step up your game? Have a plumber install a whole house leak detection monitor that will actually shut off the water to the entire house automatically if it detects unusual water usage. The following link is a short video of one such device.
Emergency Battery Backup for Sump Pumps
And finally, add an emergency battery backup to your sump pump if you don’t already have one. Not only will storms bring additional water, they sometimes knock out the electricity. A standard sump pump requires electricity to operate, so having an additional power source for it ensures it can do its job. This is also another place to install a water detection alarm in case the sump pump fails to work.
Final Thoughts on Whole House Surge Protectors and Home Safety
From installing a whole-house surge protector to adding smart water detection devices and sump pump backups, these upgrades provide peace of mind and protection against costly storm damage. Don’t wait until the next big storm hits—contact J.S. Brown & Co. today to learn how we can help safeguard your home and everything in it.
