Watch out for the causes of commercial power surges so you can prevent them.
Power surges can disrupt daily business operations, damage critical equipment, and lead to costly repairs. Understanding the common causes of commercial power surges is essential for protecting your electrical system and keeping your business running smoothly. Here are the primary culprits behind power surges and how they can impact your commercial property. If you want to install surge protection, contact CMI Lighting for efficient protection from these factors.
Lightning
Lightning strikes are one of the most powerful and unpredictable causes of commercial power surges. When lightning strikes near your business, it can send a massive electrical charge through your power lines and into your building’s electrical system. This sudden surge can overload circuits, damage equipment, and even start fires. While lightning is not a frequent occurrence, its destructive potential makes surge protection devices a must-have for commercial properties.
Damaged Utility Lines
Utility lines that deliver electricity to your building can be damaged by weather events, accidents, or even wear and tear. When utility lines are compromised—such as by a falling tree during a storm—it can disrupt the flow of electricity and create surges. These surges can travel through your system, affecting everything from lights to sensitive electronics. Regular inspections of nearby utility lines and infrastructure can help identify risks before they lead to costly disruptions.
Restoring Power After an Outage
Power outages are inconvenient on their own, but the restoration process can also cause problems. When power is restored after an outage, it often comes back in an irregular surge. This sudden influx of electricity can overwhelm your circuits, damage equipment, and shorten the lifespan of your devices. Investing in surge protection systems and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) can mitigate these risks and protect your business’s electrical infrastructure.
Electronics
The equipment inside your business can also be a source of commercial power surges. Devices like HVAC systems, industrial machinery, or refrigerators often draw large amounts of electricity when they cycle on and off. This sudden demand can create small internal surges that, over time, wear down the wiring and equipment in your building. Upgrading to energy-efficient devices and ensuring proper installation can help reduce these internal power surges.
Faulty Wiring
Faulty or outdated wiring is another common cause of commercial power surges in commercial buildings. Damaged insulation, frayed wires, or improperly installed circuits can create an unstable electrical system prone to sudden spikes in power. These surges not only harm your devices but also increase the risk of electrical fires. Regular electrical inspections and rewiring services are critical for identifying and addressing these hidden hazards.
High Demand for Electricity
In commercial properties with high energy needs, such as office buildings or manufacturing facilities, an overburdened electrical system can lead to frequent surges. When too many devices draw power simultaneously, the system may struggle to keep up, causing spikes in voltage. Assessing your business’s energy needs and upgrading your electrical infrastructure can help prevent these surges and ensure consistent power delivery.
CHECK OUT COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES FROM CMI LIGHTING
With over 35 years in the industry, CMI has an array of equipment to handle the logistics of any in-house job. We also frequently provide solutions to property managers and upcoming developments. CMI Companies provides services in the Mid-Atlantic Region and proudly serves clients in Northern Virginia, Maryland, Richmond, Southern Virginia, Manassas, Prince William County, Fairfax County, Rockville, and Prince George’s County. Also, check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.