The October 2025 Utilities Intelligence Report from JD Power highlights a troubling trend: the duration of the average power outage has climbed steadily in every U.S. region since 2022. These interruptions often bring more than just darkness; sudden voltage spikes during lightning strikes or grid restoration can fry appliances and internal electronics. Steve Clemente, President and COO of Mister Sparky, emphasizes that proactive maintenance is the only way to mitigate these risks before they manifest as costly repairs.
Hardening Your Home Against Storm-Driven Power Surges
Nearly half of American utility customers faced power outages during the first half of 2025, with extreme weather accounting for the vast majority of those disruptions. As hurricane season intensifies, electrical experts are urging homeowners to move beyond stocking flashlights and focus on safeguarding sensitive home systems from permanent damage.
To build a robust defense, technicians recommend a multi-layered approach. A whole-home surge protector serves as the primary barrier, stopping significant voltage spikes at the service entrance. However, this should be paired with point-of-use surge protectors for sensitive hardware like computers, gaming consoles, and routers. For those relying on backup power, regular maintenance of generators is essential. Testing the unit and verifying its load capacity with a licensed electrician ensures that critical systems—such as refrigeration and HVAC—remain functional when the grid fails. Relying on professional assessments allows homeowners to identify aging wiring or inadequate grounding long before severe weather enters the forecast.
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