If you’re planning new construction for a commercial building, agricultural facility, or even a residential property in Arkansas, there’s an important change in the electrical code you need to know about. Surge protection devices (SPDs) are now required equipment, not optional add-ons. Starting with the 2020 National Electrical Code, all new buildings must include whole-building surge protection installed at the main electrical service. This requirement represents a shift in how we protect buildings from power surges. Modern structures contain sensitive electronic equipment that’s increasingly vulnerable to surges that were less problematic for older, simpler electrical systems.
Why Surge Protection Became Mandatory
The code change didn’t happen arbitrarily—it reflects the reality of how we use electricity today compared to decades past. What’s plugged into outlets in a modern commercial building or even a home? You probably have computers, servers, point-of-sale systems, HVAC controls with sophisticated electronics, LED lighting with electronic drivers, security systems, and other devices with sensitive microprocessors. Modern electronics are more vulnerable to voltage spikes than the resistive loads like incandescent lights and basic motors from a few decades ago. Power surges occur from lightning strikes, utility switching operations, or large equipment cycling on and off. These can damage or destroy this equipment, causing losses that far exceed the cost of installing proper surge protection. Mandatory SPD requirements acknowledge surge protection has evolved into a necessity for protecting the investments businesses and homeowners make in electronic equipment.
How The Devices Work
Main panel surge protectors act like pressure relief valves for your electrical system. They monitor voltage levels constantly. Standard systems usually run at 120/240 volts. The SPD activates when voltage spikes above 600 volts. It diverts excess energy safely to the ground. This prevents surges from traveling through your wiring to damage equipment. Modern Type 1 or Type 2 SPDs handle massive surges from lightning or utility issues. These code-required devices clamp voltage to safe levels in nanoseconds. They serve as a first line of defense for your entire building. These units complement your smaller plug-in protectors rather than replacing them. They protect hardwired equipment that plug-in strips cannot reach. This includes your HVAC system, lighting controls, and built-in appliances.
Arkansas Businesses and Homes
Arkansas business owners gain vital protection from these surge requirements. Our region faces specific challenges. Eastern and central Arkansas experience heavy thunderstorms throughout the spring and summer. These storms cause frequent lightning-related power surges. Agricultural operations also benefit from this whole-building protection. Large motors and welders often generate internal surges. These spikes can damage sensitive controls and electronics. Commercial buildings protect expensive computer systems and point-of-sale equipment. Sophisticated building automation systems also remain safe from costly failures. Even small operations save money. A single surge can destroy HVAC controls or security systems. Replacing office equipment costs thousands in lost productivity. This expense far exceeds the modest price of surge protection.
Installation and Compliance for New Construction
Installing surge protection devices as part of new construction is straightforward when planned from the beginning of a project. The SPD is typically mounted adjacent to the main electrical panel, connected between the service conductors and ground to intercept surges before they enter the building’s distribution system. For new construction projects in Arkansas, including this required surge protection in initial electrical designs and budgets ensures compliance without surprises or change orders later in construction. The devices themselves are relatively compact and unobtrusive, requiring minimal space in electrical rooms or panel locations. Professional installation by licensed electricians ensures SPDs are sized appropriately for your electrical service, installed according to manufacturer specifications and code requirements, and properly coordinated with other protective devices in your electrical system.
Beyond Code Compliance: Long-Term Value
Although these requirements target new construction, the same logic applies to existing buildings. Consequently, business owners should consider voluntary installations. This is especially true if you house valuable electronics or have suffered past failures. Furthermore, the investment remains relatively modest. Most systems cost between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars. This small expense prevents equipment losses that cost far more. Therefore, new construction projects offer a perfect chance to safeguard your investments. These upgrades reduce downtime risks and provide peace of mind. Modern electrical systems simply require modern protection for today’s electronics. As local contractors, we help you understand these specific requirements. We ensure your new projects include the surge protection needed for long-term reliability.
This blog post was created by Ag Electric Services, LLC, an Arkansas based electrical and general contractor serving the following areas of Central and Eastern Arkansas: McCrory, Augusta, Newport, Wynne, Brinkley, Des Arc, Forrest City, Hickory Ridge, Cherry Valley, Tuckerman, Jonesboro, Searcy, Pangburn, Heber Springs, Greers Ferry, Rosebud, Quitman, Romance, Kensett, Georgetown, Cabot, Beebe, El Paso, Hickory Plains, Carlisle, Lonoke, Little Rock, North Little Rock, Sherwood, Jacksonville, Maumelle, Conway, Mayflower, Vilonia. If you would like more information about the services we provide, please click “Services” in the main menu, or contact us through the online information request form on the “Contact Us” page.