Surge Protection Checklist

When installing surge protector equipment, remember to cover all potential entrances for electric disturbances. These include:

• Electric Service. Both meter or panel-mounted protection devices are available. The breaker panel or fuse box device must be installed by an electrician or, in the case of a meter-based unit, by your rural electric cooperative.
• TV Cable or Antenna Leads. These may be plugged into a TVSS equipped with the proper coaxial plug or socket. Antennas and satellite dishes must also be properly grounded to protect against direct lightning strikes.
• Phone wires must be grounded where the service enters the home. In addition, plug sensitive devices into appropriate TVSS units to protect against transients on the phone lines.

When purchasing protection devices, look for the words “transient voltage surge suppresser” or “TVSS” and “UL Listed” on the equipment. Better devices also include lights that indicate whether the unit is working.

All grounds - electric service, telephone, cable, etc. - should be bonded together. Have an electrician check to make sure they are interconnected and within code requirements.

Surge Protection

Lightning

Fuzzy TV Reception

Lock the Doors

Useful Terms