Why Texas Homes Need Surge Protection
Texas homes experience frequent power surges caused by storms, lightning, grid fluctuations, and electrical overloads. A whole-house surge protection system typically costs between $300 and $900, depending on your panel setup and the type of surge protector used.
Homeowners installing new HVAC systems, solar panels, or expensive electronics often overlook surge protection — until it’s too late. At Dr. Watts Electric, we install code-compliant surge protection systems across Central Texas that keep your entire home safe.
Typical Cost Range for Surge Protection Installation
| System Type | Cost Range |
| Basic Panel-Mounted SPD | $300 – $450 |
| High-Capacity Whole-Home SPD | $500 – $750 |
| Premium Hybrid Systems | $750 – $900+ |
This price includes the surge protection device, installation by a licensed electrician, and panel testing to ensure protection is distributed evenly across all circuits.
What’s Included in Whole-Home Surge Protection?
A properly installed whole-home surge protection package includes:
- A Type 2 SPD (surge protective device) installed directly on your main electrical panel
- Safe routing of surge energy away from sensitive circuits
- Grounding verification and bonding (if required)
- Labeling and documentation for inspections or insurance purposes
- Warranty coverage from the manufacturer (5–10 years on most models)
Dr. Watts Electric includes a post-installation verification check to confirm that all high-risk loads (HVAC, appliances, AV systems) are effectively protected.
Cost Breakdown by Factor
| Cost Driver | Impact |
| Type of Surge Protector | Basic vs advanced MOV or hybrid devices |
| Amperage of Main Panel | Larger panels require higher-rated SPDs |
| Installation Labor | Based on panel accessibility |
| Local Permits (if required) | Minor impact ($50–$150 in some municipalities) |
| Need for Panel Upgrades | May increase cost significantly if panel is outdated |
Are All Surge Protectors the Same?
Not at all. There are major differences between plug-in strips, single-circuit protectors, and whole-home devices.
- Power strips protect individual devices — not your HVAC or major appliances
- Plug-in SPDs may not handle lightning or grid surges
- Whole-home SPDs are designed to absorb high-energy spikes before they spread through your wiring
Installing a whole-house SPD complements your in-wall and outlet-level protection.
How to Save on Whole-House Surge Protection in Texas
- Bundle surge protection with electrical panel upgrades
- Install during a major HVAC or solar system project to avoid extra trips
- Choose UL-listed surge devices with included warranties
- Get multiple estimates from licensed electricians — avoid handyman installs
- Ask about homeowners insurance discounts for surge protection
Real Cost Comparison: Prevention vs Repair
| Scenario | Estimated Cost |
| Whole-House SPD Installed | $300 – $900 |
| Replacing HVAC Control Board | $500 – $1,200 |
| Damaged TV, Router, AV Gear | $800 – $2,500+ |
| Insurance Deductible (per claim) | $1,000 – $2,500 |
One surge can destroy thousands in electronics — investing in a $600 SPD saves exponentially more.
FAQ – Surge Protection in Texas Homes
Is surge protection required by code in Texas? In most new builds, yes. Retrofitting older homes is not required but strongly recommended.
Can I install surge protection myself? No. Whole-home systems require panel access and should be installed by a licensed electrician.
What devices are protected? Everything tied to your main panel: HVAC, washer/dryer, refrigerator, TVs, computers, etc.
How long does it take to install? Usually under 2 hours with minimal disruption to power.
Does surge protection eliminate the need for power strips? No — whole-home protection is the first layer. You should still use strips for sensitive electronics.
Final Thoughts
Whole-home surge protection is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your property, especially in a state like Texas where lightning, utility surges, and overvoltage events are common. For under $1,000, you could avoid replacing HVAC boards, TVs, routers, and appliances after a single surge.
Dr. Watts Electric provides professionally installed, NEC-compliant systems designed to keep Texas homes safer and smarter.