Updated October 2026
Lightning, grid problems and even your own AC cycling on and off can send voltage spikes through your home's wiring. Most are small, but over time they wear down electronics, and a big one can ruin an appliance in an instant. A whole-house surge protector is one of the simplest ways to guard against that.
How it works
A whole-house protector mounts at your main panel. When a spike comes in, it sends the extra voltage safely to ground before it reaches your outlets, appliances and HVAC.
Types of protection
- Type 1: installed at the meter, before the main panel
- Type 2: installed at the main panel, the most common choice for homes
- Type 3: plug-in strips and outlets that protect individual devices
We recommend layering them. Use a whole-house unit at the panel and good plug-in strips for TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics.
Pros
- Protects hard-wired items a power strip can't, like your HVAC, water heater, oven and well pump
- Helps your appliances and electronics last longer
- Installs in a few hours with little disruption
Cons
- Costs more upfront than plug-in strips
- It isn't a lightning rod and won't stop a direct strike
- Needs to be installed correctly and checked occasionally
Keeping it working
Most units have indicator lights. Glance at yours a couple of times a year and after big storms. If the light shows it has done its job and needs replacing, give us a call.
What it costs
Most whole-house surge protector installs run about $400 to $900. Pricing depends on your panel and the unit you choose. We'll give you a clear quote before any work starts.
Want to protect your home?
If you're in Moore, Norman, OKC or nearby, call or text us. We'll take a look at your panel and recommend the right protection, with no pressure. See our surge protection service.
Bo Johnson
Hello, I’m Bo Johnson and I founded Passion Electric in 2014. After working as a Journeymen electrician for over ten years, I decided to start my own company!