Protect your valuable electronics, appliances, and wiring with expert help from Safe and Sound Connections

Is your home or business vulnerable to sudden electrical spikes that could damage your electronics—or even start a fire? Power surges are brief but powerful voltage spikes that can wreak havoc on everything from your computer to your HVAC system. At Safe and Sound Connections, we help property owners across Durham Region and beyond protect their homes and workplaces with reliable, code-compliant surge protection solutions.

Below, we explain what causes a power surge, how to recognize the warning signs, and most importantly—how you can protect your property.

What Is a Power Surge?

A power surge is a sudden, brief increase in voltage that exceeds the normal flow of electricity in your wiring—often lasting just microseconds. While short-lived, the impact can be significant.

Common external causes:

Lightning strikes
Power grid switching by the utility company
Transformer malfunctions

Common internal causes:

High-draw appliances (fridges, air conditioners, power tools) cycling on or off
Overloaded circuits
Faulty or outdated wiring

Even small surges that occur repeatedly can silently degrade your devices over time. When high-value items like computers, appliances, or entertainment systems are involved, the damage may be instant—and expensive.

Warning Signs of a Recent or Imminent Power Surge

Watch for these red flags that may indicate a surge has occurred—or is about to:

Flickering or dimming lights
Buzzing sounds from outlets or warm outlet covers
Smoke, burning smells, or discolouration around electrical fixtures
Devices resetting or digital clocks flashing “12:00” unexpectedly

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have a licensed electrician evaluate your system.

How to Protect Your Home or Business:

Install Quality Surge Protectors
Plug-in surge protectors are your first line of defense. But not all power bars are created equal—look for models with joule ratings of:
1,000+ joules for computers and small electronics
2,000+ joules for home theatres, gaming systems, or office equipment

Be sure to replace them every few years, especially after a major surge.

Invest in Whole-Home or Facility Surge Protection

For the strongest defence, install a Type 2 whole-home surge protector at your main electrical panel. These intercept major surges—whether from outside your home or generated internally—before they can damage your circuits and connected devices.

At Safe and Sound Connections, we install CSA-approved surge protection systems that are tailored to Ontario’s electrical infrastructure and building code.

Ensure Proper Grounding and Wiring

Even the best surge protector won’t work if your grounding is faulty or incomplete. We offer professional electrical safety inspections to check your grounding system and internal wiring—especially important in older homes and commercial buildings.

Use Smart Appliance Practices

Avoid running multiple high-draw appliances at the same time
Unplug sensitive devices during thunderstorms or when the power is out
In high-risk storm areas, consider installing a lightning protection system

Check Your Insurance and Warranties

Some premium surge protectors offer connected equipment coverage. It’s also worth reviewing your home or commercial insurance policy to confirm if surge-related damage is covered.

Why Homeowners and Businesses Trust Safe & Sound Connections

We install certified whole-home and facility-grade surge protection systems across Durham Region
Our electricians are licensed, insured, and up to date with the Canadian Electrical Code
We provide expert recommendations for surge protectors rated 1,000–2,000+ joules to suit every type of electronic device
We offer complete electrical safety inspections for homes, offices, shops, and industrial spaces
We ensure your wiring and grounding are optimized for surge safety and long-term equipment performance

More Helpful Electrical Tips From Our Team: Check Out Our Helpful Tips Library

Book a Free Estimate Today

Don’t wait until a power surge causes costly damage. Contact Safe and Sound Connections for a no-obligation quote on:

Whole-home and commercial surge protection systems
Outlet-level surge devices for sensitive equipment
Comprehensive electrical safety inspections

We proudly serve homeowners, business owners, and industrial clients across Durham Region and surrounding areas.

Which Surge Protection Solution is Right for You?

Whether you’re running a data centre, a clinic, a retail store or a production floor, having a trusted safety power surge plan is essential. From whole home protection units to whole-facility surge management system designs and installs, Safe and Sound Connections delivers reliable, professional solutions tailored to your operational needs.

Serving: Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and the GTA since 1996.

Get a Site Assessment

We’re happy to visit your business, evaluate your current setup, and recommend the most effective and budget-conscious backup solution. Ask about our maintenance packages and monitoring options for peace of mind.