Surge Protection Device Installation

Safeguard Your Electrical Equipment With Expert Surge Protection Services

Power surges, also known as transient overvoltages, occur when there is a sudden increase in voltage along power or signal lines. These surges can be triggered by lightning strikes, fluctuations in the utility grid, or internal electrical issues. They have the potential to cause significant harm to your appliances, electronics, and even the wiring infrastructure of your property. In some cases, they can pose a risk of injury or worse.

The good news is that you can take proactive measures to safeguard against such damage by incorporating specialised devices called surge protectors into your electrical system, shielding your electrical equipment from any undesired voltages above a safe threshold. It’s important to note that many insurance companies require the use of surge protection as a condition of their insurance policies.

That’s where Martin Cook Electrical comes in. We are proud to be the leading provider of surge protection device installation for both domestic and commercial customers across the South East, London, and beyond. Our expert team of electricians ensures that your valuable electrical appliances and systems are protected against the damaging effects of power surges. With our services, you can safeguard your electrical infrastructure and mitigate the risk to life.

Get a Free Quotation for Your Project

Get a free quote today and protect your electrical system from power surges with Martin Cook Electrical.

Do I Need to Have Surge Protective Devices (SPD) Installed?

The IET Wiring Regulations, BS 7671:2018 Amendment 2 state that protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could:

  1. Result in serious injury to, or loss of human life, or
  2. Result in failure of a safety service, as defined in part 2, or
  3. Result in significant financial loss or data loss. These regulations prioritise safety and aim to prevent potential hazards and damages caused by sudden increases in electrical voltage.


For all other scenarios, BS7671 says that SPDs shall be fitted to protect against transient overvoltages, unless the owner of the installation does not want surge protection and wishes to accept the risk of damage to both wiring and equipment as acceptable. By choosing to install SPDs, you can mitigate the risks associated with transient overvoltage and ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical systems, with several key benefits:

  • Protection of Individuals: SPDs help prevent serious harm or loss of life by diverting excessive electrical energy away from your electrical system. This is particularly crucial in environments where human safety is a priority, such as residential buildings, hospitals, schools, and public spaces.
  • Preservation of Public Services and Cultural Heritage: Power surges can disrupt public services and cause damage to valuable cultural assets. Installing SPDs can minimise the risk of such disruptions, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of critical infrastructure, including telecommunications, transportation, and historical sites.
  • Uninterrupted Commercial and Industrial Activities: Power surges can lead to equipment failures, data loss, and production downtime, resulting in financial losses for businesses. By installing SPDs, you can protect your valuable assets, prevent costly downtime, and maintain the smooth functioning of your commercial or industrial operations.
  • Enhanced Safety for Large Groups: Locations that accommodate a significant number of people, such as shopping malls, entertainment venues, and office buildings, require extra precautions against electrical surges. SPDs offer an additional layer of protection, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and disruption to the daily activities of a large group of individuals.

What Are the Different Types of Surge Protection Devices in the UK?

Surge protection devices come in various types, each designed to provide specific levels of protection against electrical surges. While surge protection devices can mitigate the risks associated with electrical surges, they cannot provide 100% protection in all circumstances. For comprehensive surge protection, a layered approach utilising a combination of different devices at various levels of the electrical system provides comprehensive and co-ordinated protection against different levels of surges, ensuring the safety and longevity of your electrical systems and equipment.

Type 1 Surge Protection

Type 1 surge protection devices are engineered to effectively handle the most powerful electrical surges, including those caused by lightning strikes. Typically installed at the main electrical panel or service entrance of a building, these advanced devices provide the highest level of protection for your entire electrical system, helping to prevent damage and safeguard against costly downtime.

Type 2 Surge Protection

Commonly used in most residential and commercial settings, type 2 surge protection devices are installed at the distribution board or subpanel within the building to protect against moderate to high-level surges originating from external sources, such as power grid fluctuations or equipment switching on and off. Type 2 surge protectors offer comprehensive protection for your electrical system and connected devices.

Type 3 Surge Protection

Type 3 surge protection devices are installed at the point of use, providing localised protection to individual devices or equipment. They are commonly used to safeguard sensitive and valuable electronic devices, such as computers, televisions or audio systems. Type 3 surge protectors are smaller and more specialised, providing targeted protection against low-level surges that can occur within your premises.

Why Choose Martin Cook Electrical?

Industry-Leading Solutions

At Martin Cook Electrical, we only work with high-quality surge protection devices from reputable manufacturers. We stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in surge protection technology to provide you with cutting-edge solutions. Our commitment to quality means you can rely on our installations to effectively mitigate the risks associated with power surges, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your electrical system's protection.

Personalised Approach

We understand that every customer's needs are unique. When you choose us for surge protection device installation, we take the time to assess your specific requirements and tailor our solutions accordingly. Our team will work closely with you to understand your concerns, recommend the most suitable surge protection devices, and ensure a seamless installation process. We prioritise customer satisfaction and strive to exceed your expectations at every step.

Comprehensive Protection

From whole-building surge protectors that shield your entire electrical infrastructure to point-of-use surge protectors that provide localised protection for specific equipment, we have the expertise to design a comprehensive protection strategy at different levels in your electrical system. Our goal is to minimise the risk of damage to your appliances, electronics, and wiring, protecting your investment and ensuring the continuity of your operations.

Book Your Free Consultation

Don’t wait until it’s too late – take proactive measures to safeguard your electrical system and investments. Trust Martin Cook Electrical for expert surge protection device installation and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your equipment is shielded from power surges.