Surge Protection
Whole-home surge protection from lightning strikes and power surges. Extend the life of your appliances by up to 30%.
Understanding Surge Protection
A power surge is a sudden, violent increase in electrical voltage that can damage or destroy electronics and appliances. In the Marietta area, Georgia experiences an average of 8–10 lightning strikes per square mile annually, making surge protection critical for modern homes. Beyond lightning, everyday surges from utility switching, large motor loads, and internal electrical faults pose constant risks to your home's electrical system.
Whole-home surge protectors (SPDs) installed at your electrical panel provide the first line of defense. Unlike plug-in power strips—which offer only limited, outlet-level protection—panel-mounted SPDs protect everything: your HVAC system, water heater, refrigerator, washer, dryer, and every outlet in your home.
What Causes Power Surges?
External Surges
Lightning strikes are the most destructive surge source. A single direct or nearby lightning strike can introduce 300+ million volts into your electrical system in microseconds.
Utility-Related Surges
Utility switching (fault clearing, transformer switching) and power restoration after outages can send voltage spikes through the grid.
Internal Surges
Motor loads (HVAC, refrigerator, pool pump compressors) and large inductive devices produce internal surges when they cycle on/off. Faulty wiring can also trigger surges.
Types of Surge Protection
Modern surge protection uses a three-tier approach (sometimes called "layered protection") to catch surges at different points:
Type 1: Primary Suppression (Meter to Service Entrance)
Installed between the utility meter and your main service panel. Provides the first opportunity to suppress surges before they enter your home. Less common in residential installations but highly effective for protecting the entire system.
Type 2: Secondary Suppression (Service Entrance Panel)
This is the standard for residential homes. A 2-pole or 4-pole SPD breaker mounts directly in your electrical panel, protecting all circuits. Brands like Eaton SPD, Siemens Surgelogic, and Leviton SecureLink offer reliable panel-mount options. Typical cost is $300–$600 for the device plus installation.
Type 3: Tertiary Suppression (Point-of-Use)
Power strips and outlet-mounted SPDs for sensitive equipment like home entertainment systems, computers, and game consoles. Recommended in addition to a Type 2 panel SPD for "layered" protection.
Recommended Surge Protection Brands
We install surge protection from trusted manufacturers that meet UL 1449 standards:
- Eaton SPD — 40 kA rating, 10-year warranty, excellent Georgia availability
- Siemens Surgelogic — 50 kA, compatible with most panels, reliable performance
- Leviton SecureLink — 50 kA, modern design, plug-on breaker style
- Square D (Schneider Electric) — SURGE-LOK, premium protection with status indicators
Installation & Code Compliance
NEC 230.67 (2020 National Electrical Code) requires surge protection in new and renovated electrical systems. Georgia follows the NEC, and Marietta/Cobb County requires surge protection SPDs on most residential service upgrades.
Installation involves mounting a surge protective device breaker in your main panel. The process takes 1–2 hours and requires a permit and inspection. Our team manages all permitting and ensures your SPD is properly bonded and grounded per code.
Pro tip: If you're planning a panel upgrade or any electrical work, now is the ideal time to add surge protection at the same time—it's more cost-effective than a separate service call later.
Cost Factors & Investment Value
The cost of surge protection varies based on:
- Device quality: $300–$600 depending on kA rating and brand
- Installation complexity: Simple panel installation is standard; additional hardening costs more
- Permits & inspection: $50–$150 depending on Cobb County fees
- Labor: 1–2 hours at our standard rates
Return on investment: Protecting a $3,000 HVAC system, $4,000 water heater, and $2,000+ in electronics makes a $500–$1,200 surge protection investment essential.
Signs Your Home Needs Surge Protection
If you experience any of these, call us immediately:
- Frequent appliance failures or replacements
- Electronics resetting or losing settings during storms
- Burnt smells coming from outlets or the electrical panel
- Home built before 2000 (predates surge protection standards)
- Live in an area with frequent lightning strikes (Marietta qualifies)
Service Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Services
Ready to Get Started?
Get Your Free Quote
Tell us about your electrical needs and we'll provide a quick estimate.
Why Choose Us?
- ✓Licensed & Insured
- ✓24/7 Emergency Service
- ✓Fast, Professional Work
- ✓Upfront Pricing
Price Range
$300–$1,200
Exact pricing depends on your specific needs.