How to Install Whole House Surge Protectors

Whole house surge protectors refer to devices that continually monitor a home’s main electrical panel for significant electrical surges and, in the process, diffuse any excess electricity safely into the ground. In other words, they are effective tools for protecting your home from dangerous electrical surges, and in some instances, homeowners can do the installation themselves. If you lack familiarity with the safety standards and protocols that guide electrical work, however, having a professional electrician in your corner is always well-advised. Never sacrifice safety for cost or convenience.

Tools of the Trade

The tools and materials you’ll need to get started include all the following:

• Personal protective equipment, such as insulated work boots, eye protection, and electrical safety gloves
• A double-pole circuit breaker that’s rated for your surge protection device
• A non-contact voltage tester
• A cable clamp
• A power drill or screwdriver
• A hammer and nail punch – or a pair of pliers
• Wire strippers

Getting Started: Shut Off the Power

The most important step in the process is shutting off the power, which involves opening the door to the main electrical service panel in your home and switching off the main breaker that’s situated at the top of the panel. This step de-energizes the panel’s breakers and reduces the risk of electrocution.

From here, you’ll need to use your screwdriver or power drill to remove the panel cover. Use your non-contact voltage tester to ensure that electricity isn’t running through any of the panel’s breakers – if the tester lights up on any of the black live wires, it’s time to contact a licensed electrician.

 It’s important to note that the wires coming into the top of the panel remain live. You can make a cardboard cover to protect yourself from contact or can have an electrician de-energize them at the outside meter.

Prepping the Panel and Mounting the Surge Protector

For your surge protection device to function, it must be connected to a double-pole breaker. If your panel is full and no slots are available, you’ll need an electrician to install a separate subpanel. The next step in the process is inserting the surge protector’s four color-coded wires and using the screws provided to mount it.

Connecting the Wires, Reassembling, and Testing

Once you’ve connected the wires carefully in accordance with the instructions, you’ll need to reassemble the electrical panel and test it by switching the main breaker back on – along with your surge protector’s breaker. Often, there is a digital display or indicator light that will let you know that all systems are going.

Protect Your Home and Bolster Your Peace of Mind

Installing a whole house surge protector can not only help protect your investment in your home but can also help keep your family safe. We offer the equipment and the expertise to help you get the job done right – affording you the peace of mind that comes from taking electrical safety seriously.