Protect Your Home from Power Surges: Prevention & Repair Tips for Homeowners
Power surges are a common yet potentially damaging electrical issue for homeowners in Newnan, Forsyth, and surrounding areas. Whether caused by lightning, faulty wiring, or issues with the power grid, a sudden spike in electricity can fry appliances, damage electronics, and even pose a fire hazard. Spring storms, which bring strong winds, heavy rain, and frequent lightning, are one of the leading causes of power surges in Georgia. Understanding how to prevent power surges and address any damage can save homeowners from costly repairs. Here’s what you need to know.
What Causes Power Surges?
Power surges occur when there is a sudden increase in electrical voltage that exceeds the normal flow of electricity in your home’s wiring. Common causes include:
- Spring storms and lightning strikes – Severe weather, including thunderstorms and high winds, can cause power surges by knocking down power lines or sending a massive electrical charge into your home’s wiring.
- Downed power lines – Accidents, storms, or tree limbs can knock down power lines, leading to unstable electrical supply.
- High-power appliances cycling on and off – Devices like refrigerators, HVAC systems, and washing machines create mini-surges when they start up.
- Faulty or outdated wiring – Aging electrical systems may struggle to handle modern power demands, leading to fluctuations.
- Issues with the power grid – Utility company operations, transformer failures, or sudden changes in electricity flow can cause surges.
How to Prevent Power Surges
Preventing power surges before they happen is the best way to protect your home’s electrical system and valuable electronics. Here are some essential steps:
1. Install Whole-Home Surge Protection
A whole-house surge protector, installed at your electrical panel, acts as the first line of defense against large voltage spikes, especially those caused by spring storms and lightning strikes. This device blocks excess voltage before it reaches your home’s wiring and outlets.
2. Use Point-of-Use Surge Protectors
Plugging electronics into surge protector power strips can help safeguard individual devices like TVs, computers, and gaming consoles. Look for surge protectors with a high joule rating for better protection.
3. Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
Older electrical panels may not be equipped to handle today’s energy demands. If your home has frequent electrical issues, consider upgrading to a modern panel that includes built-in surge protection.
4. Address Faulty Wiring
Outdated or damaged wiring increases the risk of electrical surges and other hazards. A licensed electrician from Hammond Services can inspect your home’s wiring and make necessary repairs or replacements.
5. Unplug Appliances During Storms
Spring storms bring frequent lightning strikes that can send power surges through the electrical grid. Unplugging expensive electronics and appliances during severe weather can prevent potential damage.
What to Do If a Power Surge Damages Your Home
Even with preventative measures, power surges can still happen. If you experience a surge that causes damage, follow these steps:
- Check your circuit breakers – If breakers have tripped, reset them carefully. If they trip repeatedly, there may be underlying wiring issues.
- Inspect electronics and appliances – Test devices to see if they are still working. If they are fried, they may need repairs or replacements.
- Look for signs of electrical damage – Burn marks, melted outlets, or a burning smell indicate serious electrical problems that require immediate professional attention.
- Call a professional electrician – If you suspect damage, contact Hammond Services for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs.
How Hammond Services Can Help
At Hammond Services, our licensed electricians provide expert solutions to prevent power surges and repair any damage that may occur. Our services include:
- Whole-home surge protector installation to safeguard your entire electrical system from spring storms and lightning strikes.
- Electrical panel upgrades to support modern energy demands and improve safety.
- Wiring inspections and repairs to ensure your home’s electrical system is up to code.
- Emergency electrical repairs to restore power safely after a surge.
Protect your home and electronics from unexpected power surges with professional electrical services from Hammond Services. Our team proudly serves homeowners in Newnan, Peachtree City, and the surrounding areas.
Schedule an Electrical Inspection Today
Don’t wait until a power surge caused by a spring storm damages your home! Check out our Specials page for current electrical offers. Contact Hammond Services today to schedule an inspection or install a whole-home surge protector. Call us now
to ensure your home is protected from unexpected electrical spikes.
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Hammond Services Now Serving Metro Atlanta Homeowners With Expert HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Solutions For over four decades, Hammond Services has built a reputation as one of Georgia’s most trusted home service providers. Known for dependable heating and air conditioning, expert plumbing work, and safe, code-compliant electrical solutions, the team at Hammond Services is proud to announce their expansion into Metro Atlanta. Homeowners in the greater Atlanta area now have access to the same high-quality service that customers in south metro Georgia have relied on since 1979. Why Metro Atlanta Homeowners Can Count on Hammond Services With so many HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies to choose from, it’s important to know who you can trust. We know how it feels when something goes wrong in your home. You’re stressed and want it fixed fast, but you also want it done right the very first time. That is what drove us to open our doors over 40 years ago. The Hammond family started this business back in 1979 and they are still living in the neighborhood today. Our reputation is built on honest work, reliable customer service, and a commitment to solving problems the right way, not just the fast way. Metro Atlanta homeowners can now benefit from: Licensed, insured technicians and plumbers Prompt, on-time service Upfront pricing with no surprises Emergency availability A full guarantee on all work From simple repairs to full installations, Hammond Services does it all—and now they’re doing it across the Atlanta metro area. Full-Service HVAC for Metro Atlanta Homes Whether you’re battling Georgia’s summer heat or keeping warm during an unexpected cold snap, your home’s HVAC system matters. Hammond Services offers: Air conditioning repair , maintenance , and installation Heating system repair and replacement Indoor air quality improvements HVAC tune-ups and inspections Energy-efficient system upgrades As the seasons shift, having a dependable HVAC partner makes a difference. With Hammond Services, Atlanta homeowners get quick response times and trusted expertise to keep their homes comfortable all year. Expert Plumbing Services From a Name You Know From water heater installations to stubborn clogs, plumbing problems can disrupt your day fast. Hammond Services provides: Drain cleaning and clog removal Water heater repair and replacement (tank and tankless) Pipe leak detection and repair Toilet, faucet, and sink repair or installation Sump pump and sewer line services Whether it’s routine maintenance or a plumbing emergency, Metro Atlanta residents now have a reliable team on call. Safe, Dependable Electrical Services Electrical problems can be both inconvenient and dangerous. Hammond Services brings licensed expertise to every project, including: Electrical panel upgrades Lighting and ceiling fan installations Outlet and switch repairs Whole-home surge protection Backup generator installation Whether you’re renovating, upgrading your system, or simply need a safe fix, Hammond’s certified electricians are ready to help. Serving Griffin, Newnan, Austell, and Now the Greater Atlanta Area With deep roots in south metro Georgia, Hammond Services is proud to now serve a wider area. The expansion into Metro Atlanta means faster response times and more accessible home service solutions for homeowners across: Griffin Newnan Austell Douglasville Fayetteville Peachtree City McDonough Stockbridge And more nearby communities If you’re in the Metro Atlanta area and need trusted help for your home’s HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems, Hammond Services is just a call or click away. Ready to Schedule Service? Experience the professionalism and reliability that has made Hammond Services a household name since 1979. With decades of experience, licensed technicians, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, they’re ready to bring comfort, safety, and efficiency to more Georgia homes than ever before. Call or book online today to schedule your service with Hammond Services—now proudly serving Metro Atlanta.
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Summers in Georgia can be intense. Brutal heat and high humidity often make your home feel like a sauna. With air conditioning demands soaring, this can overload the power grid, leading to brownouts, partial power reductions that dim your lights and shut down non-essential appliances. While brownouts aren't as severe as blackouts, they can still cause disruptions, especially during Georgia’s hottest months. For tips on how to prepare for power outages, including stockpiling essential items, check out the Power Outage Preparedness Tips from Georgia Electric Membership Corporation . The Challenge of Summer Brownouts in Georgia Brownouts occur when the electrical grid becomes overloaded, and utility providers reduce the voltage temporarily to avoid a complete power failure. This is especially common during Georgia’s brutal heatwaves and thunderstorms, two weather events we see all too often in the summer. With the extreme heat, high humidity, and unpredictable storms, having reliable power becomes crucial for Georgia homeowners. Although a short power dip might seem minor, brownouts that last for hours can have serious consequences. Here’s why: 1. Health Risks for Pets and Babies The heat can be dangerous, particularly for pets and young children. Without air conditioning or fans, temperatures inside your home can rise quickly. Pets, especially those with thick fur, are at risk of heatstroke and dehydration. Babies, who have a harder time regulating their body temperature, are also vulnerable to overheating, which can lead to serious health issues. 2. Impact on Medical Devices For people who rely on powered medical devices like oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, or refrigerated medications, brownouts can be life-threatening. The high humidity in Georgia can make respiratory conditions worse, making it even more critical to maintain a steady power supply for medical needs. 3. Food Spoilage & Home Disruptions During a brownout, refrigerators and freezers may not run at full power, which can cause food to spoil more quickly. Perishable items like dairy, meat, and seafood can become unsafe to eat in just a few hours without consistent cooling. This can lead to wasted groceries and potential health risks if spoiled food is consumed. Investing in a backup generator can help keep your refrigerator running and prevent costly food loss during extended power disruptions. Preparing for Power Disruptions Year-Round Although summer brownouts are a common issue, power disruptions can also occur during other seasons. For example, winter blackouts in Georgia can bring dangerous cold temperatures and heating system problems. For more insights on preparing for power outages throughout the year, check out our blog on Generac Generator Maintenance: Keeping the Power On When It Matters Most to ensure you're ready for any unexpected disruptions. How to Prepare for Brownouts in Georgia The best way to protect your home from the effects of summer brownouts is to prepare in advance. One of the most effective solutions is investing in a generato r. Whether you choose a whole-home standby generator that automatically kicks in when power drops, or a portable generator to keep essential appliances running, having a backup power source can keep you out of the dark when the grid goes down. Here’s how you can be ready: Backup Generators: A whole-home generator is a reliable way to keep essential systems like air conditioning, refrigeration, and medical devices powered during brownouts. These generators automatically turn on when the power goes out, ensuring your home stays functional. Portable Generators: If a whole-home generator isn’t in your budget, a portable generator can still power critical appliances, like your fridge and AC, during a brownout. Energy Conservation: Being mindful of energy usage, like running appliances during off-peak hours or keeping blinds closed to block out heat, can help reduce stress on the power grid. Electrical Inspections & Repairs: It’s also a good idea to have an electrical inspection done to make sure your home’s wiring can handle the additional load. If there are any issues, electrical repairs can ensure your system is ready for whatever the summer brings. Stay Ahead of Summer Outages in Georgia Summer brownouts are a reality here in Georgia, but with the right preparation, you can minimize the impact on your home and family. Investing in a generator, practicing energy-saving habits, and scheduling an electrical inspection will help you stay cool, keep your loved ones safe, and avoid the frustration of power interruptions. Don’t wait until the next heatwave. Take action now to stay powered all summer long. Ready to Stay Powered All Summer? Don’t let summer brownouts disrupt your comfort or safety. For expert advice on generators, electrical inspections, and electrical repairs in Griffin, Newnan, Stockbridge, or nearby areas, Hammond Services here to help! We’ll ensure your home stays cool, secure, and fully operational, no matter what the weather brings. Contact us today to schedule your services and enjoy a worry-free, comfortable home this season!
