Don’t Let Texas Weather Leave You Powerless: Essential Steps to Storm-Proof Your Home’s Electrical System
Texas is no stranger to extreme weather events. From devastating ice storms and tornadoes to powerful thunderstorms and hurricanes, Texas recorded over 47 million lightning strikes in 2019, more than anywhere else in America. While we can’t control Mother Nature’s fury, we can take proactive steps to protect our homes’ electrical systems and minimize the risk of costly damage and dangerous outages.
Understanding the Electrical Threats Texas Weather Poses
Severe weather is the No. 1 cause of outages, but the dangers extend far beyond temporary power loss. When lightning strikes near a power line (whether the line is above ground or below), it generates extra electrical pressure to the tune of millions of volts. That’s enough to knock out any store-bought strip surge protector and then some, no matter how fancy the brand name.
Power surges don’t just occur during major storms. While big surges during major storms get lots of attention, power surges often happen multiple times a month. Many go unnoticed because they may not immediately damage electronics. However, frequent low-level surges wear down circuits over time, shortening the lifespan of electronics like TVs, computers, and refrigerators.
The Critical Role of Whole-House Surge Protection
Strip surge protectors from the store simply aren’t enough to protect your entire home. Between severe thunderstorms and the basic fact that our homes’ electrical systems are more overloaded than ever, whole home surge protection is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make. A whole house surge protector is one of the most effective ways to prevent external power surges and safeguard electronics.
A whole house surge protector is wired directly to the electrical panel into your home. It will take in almost 100% of the electricity that hits your electrical panel and is built to handle large capacities of electricity and can last for quite a few years. The second that the surge protection device senses the threat of excessive voltage, it instantly shuts off power to prevent the dreaded “fried” effect that occurs when tens of thousands of volts flow through any given household outlet. Therefore, whole-home systems eliminate the need for strip surge protectors by stopping the electrical current at the source.
The investment pays for itself quickly. The average cost of installing whole-house surge protection ranges from $200 to $700, plus an electrician’s installation fee (if you hire one). This may seem like a significant expense, but it can pay for itself after a single major surge event, which could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars in appliance repairs or replacements.
Essential Pre-Storm Electrical Preparations
Beyond surge protection, Texas homeowners should take several proactive steps when severe weather threatens:
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges
- When there is impending dangerous weather, fill your bathtub with water if your supply depends on electricity. Fill up your vehicles with gas in the event that you need to evacuate or relocate to another area; and if you use a portable generator, fill up fuel cans
- Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank
- Have flashlights for every household member
Generator Safety: A Critical Consideration
If you’re considering backup power, generator safety is paramount. Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages. Members with standby electric generators should make sure they are properly installed by a licensed electrician in a well-ventilated area. Never run a generator indoors; doing so can lead to a dangerous and deadly buildup of carbon monoxide.
During and After Severe Weather Events
When storms hit, safety should be your top priority. When outside, stay away from downed power lines and be alert to the possibility that tree limbs or debris may hide an electrical hazard. Treat all downed or hanging power lines as if they are energized. Lines do not have to be arcing or sparking to be live. Warn others to stay away and call 911 or contact us.
After power returns, take time to assess your electrical system. When power returns, plug in appliances and electronic devices, reset clocks, and, when it makes sense, check your home for storm or power surge damage.
Professional Electrical Services Make the Difference
While some preparations can be handled by homeowners, electrical system protection requires professional expertise. For residents in the Big Country region of Texas, working with experienced professionals like an Electrician Jones County ensures that surge protection systems are properly installed and electrical systems are adequately prepared for severe weather.
Founded by a visionary with over 20 years in the electrical field, Hooked Up Electric has been serving Taylor County, TX, for four years. As dedicated electricians, we are committed to not just maintaining but elevating the standard of electrical services through innovative processes and a dedication to excellence. Our team of skilled electricians ensures every project meets the highest quality standards, providing reliable solutions for both homes and businesses.
Don’t Wait for the Next Storm
Texas weather is unpredictable, but your electrical system’s protection doesn’t have to be. Take the example of two homes in Houston during a severe thunderstorm, both of which experienced a significant power surge. The home with whole-house surge protection saw no damage, while the home without protection had to replace several appliances, totaling over $2,000 in repairs. This scenario illustrates the value of surge protection, as it often pays for itself after just one significant surge event.
Investing in proper electrical system protection before severe weather strikes is not just about convenience—it’s about safeguarding your family’s safety and protecting thousands of dollars in appliances and electronics. With Texas’s extreme weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, now is the time to ensure your home’s electrical system is ready for whatever nature brings.