Whole-Home Surge Protection
A panel surge protector stops spikes from the grid, nearby lightning and your own AC compressor.
Signs it's time
- Electronics dying for no obvious reason
- A new EV charger, heat pump or solar
- Power that blinks off and back on
- Power strips as the only defense
How the job goes
- Mount a Type 2 surge device at the main panel
- Check the ground it relies on
- Optional plug-in protection for pricey electronics
- Write the install date on the panel
How much does whole-home surge protection cost?
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Whole-home surge protector at the main panel | $550 to $1,100 |
Before permit and utility fees. Prices updated October 2026.
What moves the price
- Number of fixtures, devices or spots
- Power nearby, or a new circuit
- Ceilings, walls, attic access, patching
- Your fixtures or ours
- Permits: usually for new circuits, usually not for straight swaps
Permits for this work
Straight swaps usually need no permit. New circuits and outdoor, hot tub, pool, heat pump or range wiring usually do. The fee shows on your quote.
Brands we install
Brand names and logos are trademarks of their owners and are shown to identify the equipment we install and service. Chief Electric is an independent contractor and is not affiliated with these manufacturers.
The offer for this service
$100 Off
an Outage-Ready Check before fire season
Code CHIEF-FALL26Cannot be combined with other offers. 1 per household. Residential use only. Show at time of service. Expires November 30, 2026.
Questions we hear
Does a whole-home surge protector stop lightning?
Nearby strikes, mostly. Nothing stops a direct hit.
How long does a surge protector last?
Five to ten years. Most have a light that says when it's spent.
Do you charge for the quote?
No. An electrician looks at the job in person and quotes it, free.