Surge Protector Frequently Asked Questions

What is a power surge and why do I need to be concerned about it?

A power surge is defined as a transient over voltage condition or high energy surge current. These are caused by many naturally occurring, and human caused reasons which are beyond the electric utility’s control. Power surges can be harmful and destructive to electrical equipment. Expensive electrical appliances and sensitive electronic equipment should be protected against power surges.

How do I know if the Plug-In Surge Protector is working?

The Plug-In Surge Protector has lights indicating proper operation. In the event of a surge, the Plug-In Surge protector will shunt minor surges with no noticeable effects. If the surge is high enough, the surge protector will operate and shut power to the plugged in electronics. Reset the surge protector as outlined in the owner’s manual provided with the unit. If you’re unable to reset the surge protector, or the surge protector does not turn on anymore, the surge protector has reached its end of life. This is normal in the design of the surge protector. In this event, bring the surge protector to SMUD Customer Service Center, and we’ll give you a new one in return.

How do I know if the Whole House Surge Protector is working?

The Whole House Surge Protector has a green LED light on the side which is lit when the unit is functioning correctly. When the LED is off, or when there is an audible alarm, call SMUD at 916-732-6368 to schedule a service call.

Why do I need both levels of Surge Protection Service?

Both levels of surge protection service provide the maximum surge protection for your electrical appliances and sensitive electronic equipment. The first level Whole House Surge Protector protects “white appliances” against surges originating from outside your home, i.e., the electrical grid. The second level Plug-In Surge Protectors protects sensitive electronics from surges originating from within the home. Both levels together provide the most effective surge protection solution.

Will the Whole House Surge Protector protect against low voltage brown outs or “half power” conditions?

No. The Whole House Surge Protector is designed to suppress harmful spikes in voltage and current. It will not protect against low voltage brown outs or black outs. In the event you experience brown outs, call SMUD at 916-732-6368.

What type of “inspection, testing and repair” will be performed at my electrical panel?

For the Whole House Surge Protector to function safely and correctly, a secure ground connection, and tight electrical connections are required. Before the technician installs the Whole House Surge Protector, he or she will have to ensure the safe operation of the equipment. As a courtesy and requirement for safe operation, testing of the ground at the electrical panel is performed, and any loose connections will be tightened as required. If replacement of worn or defective parts and / or extensive repairs are required, the technician will not install the Whole House Surge Protector. The technician will advise the homeowner about the necessary corrective action(s) that will be required for proper installation of the unit. The ground connection as well as the electrical panel and components within are the responsibility of the homeowner.

I have a Whole House Surge Protector and /or a Plug-In Surge Protector installed. I think a power surge damaged my appliances or plug-in equipment. What do I do?

Call the warranty hotline found in the documentation provided when the Whole House and Plug-In Surge Protectors were initially installed in your home. If you can’t find the documentation, you can view it here. Warranty service is provided by the manufacturer of the Surge protector(s), and all claims must go through them.