22 August 2025
The Advantages of Upgrading Your Fuse Box
Have you ever thought about what happens to your electrical system when a sudden spike of voltage hits?
With our homes and businesses now packed with sensitive tech, ranging from smart thermostats and laptops to medical devices and security systems, it’s no surprise that demand for surge protection is rising.
Just one unpredictable surge can ruin thousands of pounds’ worth of equipment in seconds. That’s why surge protection is essential for your property; because prevention is far cheaper than repair.
In our latest blog, we at Mission Road Electrical dive head long into the subject. We explain what causes power surges, what they can damage, and how our surge protection installation services can help keep your property safe, compliant, and future-ready.
A power surge is a short, sharp spike in electrical voltage that travels through your system and can overload any connected device. These surges can be caused by external forces like lightning strikes or changes in the power grid, or internal issues such as faulty appliances switching on or off.
What many people don’t realise is that most surges originate inside the property. That’s why it’s critical to protect homes from power surges with properly installed protective devices. Commercial properties, too.
Surges might only last a split second, but the damage they leave behind can be lasting and costly. So, it pays to hire professional electrical services to save yourself a world of trouble.
Now that you understand what a surge is, let’s look at the impact. A sudden voltage spike can fry the delicate circuits inside your computers, TVs, internet routers, CCTV systems, fire alarms, and smart home tech.
Even heating controls aren’t immune, as in commercial or rental environments, surges can take down critical safety systems like emergency lighting and alarms, potentially creating safety risks and liability.
Crucially though: not all damage is immediate or dramatic.
Some surges slowly degrade equipment over time, reducing reliability and lifespan. For businesses, this can mean lost data, system downtime, and hefty repair costs. These risks are exactly why surge protection is essential for your property, whether you’re a homeowner or managing a public building.
And it’s precisely why we provide residential and commercial surge protection to ensure that vital systems stay protected from both sudden and silent failures.
Here we are going to break down the basics of how surge protection does its job.
Surge protection devices, known as SPDs, are fitted directly into your consumer unit or main distribution board, where they monitor electrical flow constantly. Though they remain inactive during normal conditions, they’re always on standby.
When a sudden surge strikes, these devices act instantly, stepping in to prevent damage before it can reach your home’s electrical equipment.
When a voltage spike enters the system, the SPD reacts immediately by diverting the excess energy safely to earth. This fast redirection protects everything from your fridge to your broadband router.
It’s a silent safeguard, working behind the scenes to ensure your appliances, systems, and sensitive devices stay untouched by damaging electrical surges.
Surge protectors come in two types – Type 1 and Type 2 – the type you choose is determined by your setup.
A Type 2 SPD is the most common solution for homes, rental properties, and offices. It’s ideal for properties not at high risk of direct lightning strikes.
For those that are, like tall buildings or countryside sites, Type 1 SPDs are used in conjunction to provide a stronger barrier.
Understanding the right solution for your premises is vital, and that’s where our expert team comes in.
You might be wondering if surge protection is just good practice or a legal requirement. The answer is both. The 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)set out when and where surge protection must be considered, and in many cases, it’s mandatory.
Surge protection must be installed if:
Bottom line is that, as well as from a safety standpoint, the law is why surge protection is essential for your property. It’s not simply a recommendation.
Not sure if your property qualifies? Let’s make it simple. Any building that houses valuable or sensitive electronics needs surge protection, especially where downtime or failure could be dangerous or costly.
You should seriously consider surge protection if you manage:
Our residential and commercial surge protection services are tailored to match each environment’s needs, from domestic properties to complex multi-unit sites.
At Mission Road Electrical, we’re proud to say that many homeowners, landlords, and business owners trust us to install power surge protection. UK property owners and managers can rely on our qualified electricians to assess, supply, and install the right solution for their property.
As part of our comprehensive and fully accredited service, we offer:
All installations are fully compliant with current regulations, and we only fit Type 1 and Type 2 surge protection devices from trusted manufacturers.
Our team will explain the options clearly, so you can make an informed choice that fits your budget and compliance needs.
Power surges don’t wait, so make sure you get ahead of the damage and spare yourself the consequences.
Speak to our surge protection electricians today by calling 01202 283643 or using the contact form on our website. Whether you’re after a surge protection quote or a full safety check, we’re ready to help.
And if you’re looking for further reading, read our blog on how to prevent electrical fires in your home for more expert advice.
As an NICEIC-accredited and MCS-approved contractor, we offer expert workmanship with a 100% guarantee; because protecting your property shouldn’t be a gamble.
