Surge Protection Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Why do I need AC Surge Protection?
AC surges are not caused by lightning only. Work on the electric utility system, adverse weather conditions, or even something as simple as electric motor activity within a building (air conditioners, shop equipment, copiers, printers and refrigerators, for instance can cause power fluctuations.
Surge protectors extend the lifetime of sensitive electronic equipment by protecting it against harmful power surges and overvoltage problems. TESCO's surge protectors add the advantage of buffering electronic equipment from everyday fluctuations. This is critical because "invisible" power disturbances have effect, and can lead to premature failure of all part of an unprotected electronic system.
With the clean, "computer grade" power conditioned by your TESCO surge protector, you can get optimum performance and reliability from your equipment, as well as overall extended equipment life.
How long can I expect my TESCO surge protector to last?
After extensive laboratory and field testing, TESCO is able to provide an extensive warranty. These surge protectors have been proven to withstand repeated lightning hits and x2 AC line overvoltages (373 Voltpeak). You can rely on their solid-state technology to protect your critical electronics under worst-case power disturbances.
What is covered under the TESCO warranty?
The TESCO warranty covers all downline electromechanical equipment (i.e. washers, dryers, refrigerators, heat pumps and other appliances motor driven or mechanical in nature) and electronic equipment (i.e. computers, televisions, stereos and microwaves ) which are damaged from lightning and power surges that come through the electrical system into the house passing through the failed TESCO surge arrester. The warranty does not cover damage which occurs as a result of the Marietta Power's transmission lines coming into contact with the distribution system.
The wiring in my house is of the older "two-wire" type without an internal ground wire. Does the TESCO warranty cover this instance?
The TESCO warranty covers this instance as long as the house is properly grounded at the service entrance.
I did not receive a warranty registration card. Is registration required for my equipment to be protected by the warranty?
Marietta Power which installs the TESCO device must record the date of installation, location and the consumer's name, address and telephone number for reference in case of a claim. The consumer does not register the product.
The two lights on the side of my TESCO device are not lit. What does this mean?
If one or both the two indicator lights are not lit this means the device was likely damaged by lightning or a power surge. You should call Marietta Power to have the device inspected and replaced.
My connected equipment has been damaged. What do I do?
If damage has occurred to downline equipment, you should contact TESCO (or Marietta Power) to file a claim, according to the instructions under the warranty section. You should first obtain estimates to repair or replace the damaged equipment prior to filing the claim. Marietta Power should be contacted immediately to inspect and replace the TESCO device.
What if I have questions about the surge program or the TESCO Product?
You can contact Marietta Power about questions concerning the lease program, warranty or the TESCO device at (770) 794-5102. You may also contact TESCO directly by calling (800)-426-2826. This HOT line is available 24 hours per day. You can also learn more about the TESCO device online at www.tesco-online.com.
What will happen if I have a valid claim?
TESCO will confirm that the surge device was damaged and will work to evaluate the claim. Validated claims will be processed and paid by TESCO according the warranty. If the cost to repair an item is higher than the cost to replace with a new item, TESCO will pay the replacement cost.
What is the turn around time for a claim to be processed?
Typically it will take from 2 weeks to 6 weeks for the damaged device to be removed from the meter, sent to TESCO for evaluation, and for processing and payment of the claim. The claim will be processed faster if the consumer has estimates of the repair or replacement of the damaged items.
Will my damaged equipment be replaced with new equipment?
TESCO will evaluate your claim and the damaged surge device. Once the claim has been validated, TESCO will either pay to have the damaged equipment repaired, or will pay the replacement cost, if lower than the cost of repairing the equipment.