Living in Indianola, IA, we experience all four seasons to the extreme—hot summers, cold winters, and everything in between. With Iowa’s unpredictable weather patterns, including severe thunderstorms, heavy snowfall, and high winds, power outages and electrical surges are common concerns for homeowners. A sudden surge of electricity can damage your home’s electrical system, destroy valuable electronics, and even pose fire hazards. Taking proactive steps to protect your home from power surges is essential for keeping your electrical system safe and functional.
What is a Power Surge?
A power surge is a sudden spike in electrical voltage that can overwhelm your home’s wiring and appliances. These surges can range from minor fluctuations to major spikes, potentially damaging electronics and reducing the lifespan of household devices.
Common Causes of Power Surges in Indianola, IA
Understanding what causes power surges can help you prevent potential damage. Here are the most common reasons power surges happen in our area:
1. Severe Thunderstorms and Lightning
Iowa ranks high in the nation for thunderstorm frequency, and Indianola residents know that summer storms bring intense lightning. A direct or nearby lightning strike can send a surge of electricity through power lines, impacting everything plugged into your home’s outlets. Unplugging high-value electronics during storms is a simple way to prevent surge damage.
2. Power Grid Issues and Outages
Indianola’s power grid, managed by MidAmerican Energy, experiences occasional outages, especially during extreme weather conditions. When power is restored after an outage, a sudden rush of electricity can cause a surge, damaging appliances and electronics. To mitigate the risk, unplugging devices during an outage and using surge protectors is recommended.
3. Old or Faulty Home Wiring
Indianola has a mix of older and newer homes, particularly in neighborhoods near Simpson College and the town’s historic districts. If your home has outdated wiring, it may not be equipped to handle modern electrical loads, increasing the risk of power surges. Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or buzzing outlets could indicate faulty wiring. A licensed Indianola electrician can inspect and upgrade your home’s wiring for added safety.
4. Overloaded Outlets and Circuits
With more people working remotely and relying on home offices, many Indianola residents are using extension cords and power strips heavily. Plugging too many devices into one circuit can overload it, increasing the risk of surges. Spreading out power usage and using dedicated surge protectors can help prevent this issue.
5. High-Powered Appliances Cycling On and Off
Major household appliances, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines, draw large amounts of electricity when they cycle on and off. Indianola’s humid summers mean air conditioners run frequently, creating small but frequent power surges. Installing a whole-home surge protector can help regulate these fluctuations and protect your appliances.
How to Protect Your Indianola Home from Power Surges
Taking proactive steps can help safeguard your home from damaging power surges. Here are a few key measures:
- Install Surge Protectors: Use surge-protected power strips for sensitive electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, and computers.
- Consider a Whole-Home Surge Protector: This device is installed at your electrical panel to shield your entire home from voltage spikes.
- Schedule an Electrical Inspection: If your home is older or you’ve noticed electrical issues, a licensed electrician can identify and fix any problems.
- Unplug Devices During Storms: If a storm is approaching, unplug major appliances and electronics to prevent damage.
Get Expert Electrical Protection in Indianola, IA
At Mr. Holland’s Home Services, we understand the unique electrical challenges Indianola homeowners face. Our experienced electricians specialize in whole-home surge protection, helping safeguard your home against unexpected power surges. Whether you’re dealing with an aging electrical system or want to upgrade your home’s surge protection, we’re hered to help.
Call us now at (515)-416-6406 to schedule an appointment with a certified Indianola, IA electrician!