Whole-Home Surge Protection in Chicago, IL
A single power surge can destroy thousands of dollars worth of electronics, appliances, and HVAC equipment in an instant. MidWest Electrical Services installs whole-home surge protection systems that safeguard everything in your home from the damaging effects of voltage spikes.
Most people think of power surges as dramatic lightning strikes, but the majority of damaging surges come from more mundane sources. ComEd grid switching, utility maintenance, large motors cycling on and off (like your AC compressor), and even nearby construction can send voltage spikes through your wiring. Chicago's aging electrical infrastructure and frequent summer storms make south and southwest side homes particularly vulnerable to these events.
A whole-home surge protector is installed directly at your electrical panel, where it intercepts voltage spikes before they reach your home's wiring and connected devices. Unlike the power strips most people use to protect individual devices, a whole-home system protects everything simultaneously, including hardwired appliances like your HVAC system, refrigerator, and washer/dryer that cannot be plugged into a strip protector.
The investment in whole-home surge protection is modest compared to the cost of replacing damaged electronics and appliances. A modern flat-screen TV, a laptop, a smart thermostat, and a refrigerator control board can easily total several thousand dollars. Your HVAC system's control board alone can cost $500 to $1,500 to replace. Whole-home surge protection provides peace of mind that a single electrical event will not result in a cascade of expensive replacements.
What to Expect
Panel Assessment
We inspect your electrical panel to determine the best surge protection solution for your home's configuration and your protection needs.
Product Selection
We recommend a surge protection device rated for your panel and usage, explaining the features and protection level.
Installation
The surge protector is installed directly at your panel by a licensed electrician. Installation typically takes about an hour.
Verification & Warranty
We verify the system is functioning correctly and register the product warranty, which often includes connected equipment coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is whole-home surge protection?
A whole-home surge protector is a device installed at your main electrical panel that monitors incoming voltage and diverts excess voltage (surges) safely to ground before it reaches your home's wiring and devices. It protects everything in your home simultaneously, including hardwired appliances.
Do I still need power strip surge protectors?
For maximum protection, a layered approach is ideal. The whole-home protector at the panel handles large surges, while point-of-use surge protectors on sensitive electronics provide an additional layer of defense against smaller, internally generated surges. However, whole-home protection is the critical first layer that most homes lack.
How long does a whole-home surge protector last?
Most quality whole-home surge protectors last 5 to 10 years, depending on how many surges they absorb. Many models include an indicator light that shows when the unit needs replacement. We recommend periodic inspection as part of routine electrical maintenance.
Does Chicago's electrical grid cause frequent surges?
Yes. Older sections of the ComEd grid, substation switching events, and Chicago's frequent summer thunderstorms all contribute to voltage fluctuations that can damage sensitive electronics. Homes near commercial or industrial areas may experience more frequent surges due to heavy electrical loads cycling on and off.
Related Services
Electrical Panel Upgrade
Upgrade from outdated fuse boxes to modern 200-amp breaker panels for safety and capacity.
Residential Electrical Repair
Expert troubleshooting and repair for all residential electrical issues in Chicago homes.
Generator Installation
Standby generator installation with automatic transfer switch for reliable backup power.
Neighborhoods We Serve
We provide whole-home surge protection services throughout Chicago's south and southwest side, including: