Power surges are unpredictable — and in Texas, they’re not just a result of lightning. Grid fluctuations, HVAC cycling, and outdated electrical panels can all lead to spikes that damage expensive electronics or even start electrical fires.
But is investing in surge protection actually worth it? Or is it just another upsell?
Case Study #1: The $4,000 TV That Died in a Split Second
Location: Killeen, TX
Issue: A brief lightning storm in spring 2025 sent a surge through a homeowner’s line. The result?
- TV fried
- Router destroyed
- Bedroom HVAC control board failed
Total replacement cost: $3,950
Solution After the Fact: They installed a panel-mounted surge protector for $695.
Would surge protection have helped?
Yes — a panel-level device would have diverted the surge before it reached branch circuits.
Learn more about system-wide protection on our Surge Protection Services page.
How Much Does Surge Protection Cost in Texas?
In 2026, the cost to install whole-home surge protection ranges from $500 to $1,200, depending on system type and panel accessibility.
| Protection Type | Avg Installed Cost |
| Plug-in Strips (Local Only) | $30–$80 each |
| Whole-Home Surge Protector (Panel-Based) | $500–$900 |
| High-End Suppression + Warranty | $900–$1,200 |
Most homeowners recover this cost after a single prevented failure — especially for homes with smart TVs, HVACs, home offices, or kitchen appliances.
Use our Surge Protection pricing Calculator to estimate your upgrade if you’re also replacing the panel.
Case Study #2: New Build Without Protection = Instant Regret
Location: Temple, TX
Scenario: A homeowner built a 2,200 sq ft home in 2023 but opted out of surge protection to save on construction costs. Within 6 months:
- Their garage opener failed
- Smart oven display went dark
- HVAC board needed reprogramming
Total unexpected repair costs: $1,800+
Panel retrofit with surge protection: $850
Now included in all new builds they recommend to clients.
What’s Protected — and What Isn’t?
Whole-home surge protection doesn’t cover everything. Here’s a quick guide:
| System | Protected? |
| HVAC & Thermostats | ✅ Yes |
| Kitchen Appliances | ✅ Yes |
| Home Office Equipment | ✅ Yes |
| Solar Inverter | ✅ Yes (with compatible setup) |
| Plug-in Lamps & Extension Cords | ❌ No (use local strips) |
| Detached Buildings | ❌ Separate system required |
Ask about secondary protection options on our Electrical Installation and Repair page.
Case Study #3: Business Saved from $10K Equipment Loss
Location: Salado, TX
Context: A home-based business with 5 computers, a 3D printer, and networking equipment
Protection Installed: Mid-tier surge protection + UPS system
Outcome: Grid outage in July 2025 triggered surges across the neighborhood — multiple neighbors lost routers, HVAC boards, and more. This homeowner lost nothing.
Installed cost: $1,050
Estimated loss avoided: $8,500–$10,000
Smart protection = smart business.
When Surge Protection Isn’t Optional
You should seriously consider surge protection if:
- Your home has a modern HVAC system with sensitive electronics
- You work remotely or run a home business
- Your panel is 15+ years old
- You’ve experienced frequent tripped breakers or flickering
- You’re installing solar or EV charging systems
- You’re in a region with frequent storms or grid instability
If your current panel isn’t compatible, we’ll assess during service — start at our Electrical Troubleshooting and Repair page.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For most Texas homeowners, whole-home surge protection is a one-time cost that prevents recurring, expensive damage.
Whether you’re protecting your HVAC, TV, or office — one surge could cost more than the entire system upgrade.
Ready to Protect Your Home?
Use our Electrical Cost Calculator to estimate your surge protection or panel upgrade in minutes.
Or schedule your Surge Protection Installation and protect your home from the unexpected.