A power surge is a sudden increase in the electrical current flowing through your home’s wiring. This can cause damage to your electronic devices and even pose a fire hazard.
Here are some common symptoms of a power surge:
- Flickering lights
- Burning smell
- Tripped breakers
- Blown fuses
- Electronics not working
- Internet connectivity issues
- Flickering lights: If your lights are flickering or dimming, it could be a sign of a power surge.
- Burning smell: If you detect a burning smell from any of your appliances or electrical outlets, it could be a sign of damage from a power surge.
- Tripped breakers: If your circuit breakers are frequently tripping, it could be due to power surges.
- Blown fuses: If your fuses are frequently blowing, it could be due to power surges.
- Electronics not working: If your electronic devices suddenly stop working or behave erratically, it could be due to damage from a power surge.
- Internet connectivity issues: Power surges can also affect your internet connectivity and cause slow or disrupted service.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action to protect your devices and prevent further damage. Consider investing in surge protectors for your most valuable electronic devices, and have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring to ensure it is up to code.
Read also: How to prevent Power Surge Damage
Who is responsible for a power surge?
It is important to note that they are not always caused by a single person or entity.
Power surges can occur due to a variety of factors. One common cause is lightning strikes. When lightning strikes a power line or transformer, it can cause a sudden surge of electricity that can damage electrical equipment and appliances. Similarly, power outages can also cause power surges when power is suddenly restored, and the electrical load on the grid changes.
Another common cause of power surges is faulty or outdated electrical equipment. Over time, electrical wiring, outlets, and appliances can become worn out or damaged, causing irregular voltage levels that can lead to power surges. It is important to maintain and replace electrical equipment regularly to prevent power surges.
Utility companies themselves can also cause power surges. For example, when they switch power sources or perform maintenance on the grid, it can cause a sudden surge of electricity that can damage electrical equipment and appliances. In these cases, the responsibility for the power surge may lie with the utility company, and affected individuals or businesses may be able to file a claim for damages.
In conclusion, a power surge can be caused by a variety of factors, and it is not always the fault of a single person or entity. Lightning strikes, power outages, faulty electrical equipment, and utility company maintenance are just a few examples of the many causes of power surges. To protect your electrical equipment and appliances, it is important to maintain and replace equipment regularly and take appropriate measures to prevent power surges.