As we enter the spring / summer months electrical storms become more prevalent and so do losses from electrical surges. Electrical surges occur when the voltage in your home's electrical system increases and returns to normal within millionths of a second. Lightening is one of the main causes. The good news is that destruction caused by most surges can be prevented.

What equipment is vulnerable to surges?

• Computers
• DVD Players
• TVs
• Satellite Dishes
• Well Pumps
• Garage door openers
• Telephones
• Electronic components of almost any newer appliance!

A properly installed surge protective device combined with a properly grounded electrical system, should protect your electronics from all but the most severe surges. A simple plug-in tester from RONA can be used to indicate whether the outlet is grounded properly.

Guidelines for selecting a surge protector.

• The device should be UL-Listed and tested.
• The device should be capable of protecting all types of power and signal lines that are connected to protected equipment. (Examples are phone lines and coaxial cables that are often forgotten about).
• The device should have some means of letting you know if it has failed and is no longer providing protection to your devices.
• Remember that Surge protectors have a life span and should be replaced periodically especially in areas of high surge activity.

For more details on selecting the proper surge protection system for you visit:

http://www.hydroonenetworks.com/en/safety/safety_tips/surge_protection/

-- Greg Lewis, State Farm