Whole-Home Surge Protection

A Type 2 panel-mount surge protector installed runs $400-$800 depending on the device specification (joule rating, response time, indicator features) and whether your existing panel has room for the breakers it requires. Bundled point-of-use protection on the HVAC condenser and well pump adds $200-$400 total. Installation is a 1-2 hour job; no major outage required.

Most CT homeowner policies do cover lightning damage — but with a deductible ($500-$2,500 typical), and the claim count can affect renewal rates. Whole-home surge protection is preventative: it makes the claim less likely in the first place. Some carriers offer a small premium discount for documented whole-home surge protection installation; we can provide the documentation packet.

No. Plug-in strip protectors are Type 3 point-of-use protection — useful for individual devices but they don't protect the rest of the house, they degrade over time (most strips need replacement every 3-5 years), and they don't protect hardwired loads like HVAC, well pumps, dishwashers, ranges, and lighting. Layered protection (Type 2 at the panel + Type 3 at sensitive devices) is the standard approach.

Yes — and we should check whether the strike damaged the panel bus or grounding electrode at the same time. A direct or near-direct strike can degrade the panel's internal protection without obvious visible damage. We'll inspect during the surge-protector install and flag anything that needs additional work.

A Type 2 panel-mount typically lasts 10-15 years under normal grid conditions. Each major surge degrades it incrementally. Modern protectors include an indicator light that goes from green to red when they need replacement. We label the protector with the install date and recommend a visual check every spring.