Wiktor Wise
Exterior electrical line protection plans are a type of insurance that covers the cost of repairing or replacing exterior electrical wiring and components such as weatherheads, insulators, risers, meter bases, and service entrance conductors. These plans are offered by companies like American Home Solutions and FPL Home, providing up to $3,000 in annual coverage for repairs needed due to ordinary wear and tear. While some homeowners may question the necessity of such insurance, basic homeowners' insurance policies typically do not cover these types of repairs, leaving individuals financially responsible for what can be very expensive fixes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Up to $3,000 annually for exterior electric wiring |
| Covered Components | Weather head, insulator, riser, meter base, meter boxes, service entrance conductors, and permanent wiring to detached garages, sheds, outdoor fixtures, and pools |
| Customer Support | 24/7 repair hotline, expert electricians sent to your home |
| Cost | $4.99/month |
| Cancellation Policy | Full refund if canceled within 30 days |
| Rebate | 50% off per month for the first year, added to FPL bill |
| Eligibility | Owner of a residential home permanently secured to the ground |
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What You'll Learn
Cost of repairs
Exterior electrical line protection plans are a good idea to save money on repairs to your home's power lines. These plans cover the vital exterior electric wiring, including the overhead and underground lines from the connection with the utility's electrical system to the exterior wall of your home. Repairs to these lines can be costly, and the cost can vary depending on several factors.
The cost to replace an electrical service line ranges from $225 to $500, with an average cost of $250. The final cost depends on the type of wire used and the length required. For example, aluminum wires are three times more affordable than copper but break down much faster. Replacing exterior cables can cost about $1,500, or up to $5,000 if the cables are underground.
If you are replacing wires from an electrical meter box to a breaker box, you may also need to install a new meter or replace the breaker box. The cost to replace a wire from a meter to a breaker box is about $225 to $500, including the cost of new wires and professional installation. The average cost is $250.
Upgrading to a 200-amp service can cost an average of $1,300 to $3,000. Older homes that have not been updated may have as low as 30-amp service. The cost to install a new meter box is $500 to $2,100, and the cost to replace an electrical panel is $850 to $2,500.
Other costs to consider when repairing or replacing electrical lines include electrical permits, which cost $50 to $350 on average, and the cost of trenching, which is $5 to $12 per linear foot, or $500 to $1,200 on average to dig a 100-foot trench for underground conduit. The cost to install the conduit is $4 to $8 per linear foot, excluding trenching costs.
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Homeowner's insurance coverage
Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you from the costs associated with repairing or replacing various service lines, including water pipes, sewer lines, and electrical lines, among others. However, standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover exterior electrical line repairs, which can be very expensive. Exterior electrical lines are often buried underground, making them vulnerable to damage from tree roots, shifting soil, corrosion, and ageing.
To ensure you are covered in the event of exterior electrical line failure, you may need to purchase additional service line coverage. This type of coverage is an optional add-on offered by many home insurance companies and can provide significant protection and peace of mind for a small investment. Service line coverage can help pay for repairs to water, sewer, gas, and electrical lines serving your home, and some policies may also cover excavation costs, street repairs, and landscaping expenses.
It is important to note that service line insurance typically covers water lines, sewage lines, gas lines, and electrical and communication lines. Most policies do not include pre-existing problems, damage from poor maintenance, or natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods. Additionally, certain systems, such as sprinkler systems, heating and cooling systems, fuel tanks, and septic systems, may be excluded from coverage.
The cost of service line coverage can vary depending on the choices you make about your policy, including the amount of coverage and the deductible. Most homeowners pay an average of $30 to $50 per year for service line coverage, but this amount can be offset by opting for a higher deductible. It is recommended to contact your local independent agent for a quote on a homeowners insurance policy that includes service line coverage to ensure you are adequately protected in the event of exterior electrical line failure.
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Benefits of an electrical line protection plan
Electrical line protection plans are necessary to safeguard your finances against the costs of emergency electrical repairs. Issues with your exterior electrical lines can be troublesome, especially since most of these components are located underground or in insulators.
Peace of mind
You won't have to worry about unexpected repairs or the hassle of finding a qualified electrician. With 24/7 assistance, you can rest assured that a customer service representative will be standing by to schedule your service appointment and help you get back to normal as soon as possible.
Expert service
You'll have access to a network of reliable, experienced contractors in your area who will conduct business in a professional, prompt, and efficient manner. These experts will help diagnose and address any issues with your exterior electrical lines, which can be next to impossible for homeowners to do on their own without the proper training or expertise.
Financial savings
Electrical line protection plans can help you save money on repairs to your home's power lines and electrical wiring system. Repairs to your home’s electrical wiring system can be costly, and having to replace your home’s exterior electrical system components can put a dent in your finances. With a protection plan, you can avoid unexpected repair bills and protect against damages to covered consumer electronics and kitchen appliances in case of a power surge or lightning strike.
Comprehensive coverage
A good electrical line protection plan will cover a range of electrical problems, including issues with overhead and underground lines, the weather head, insulator, riser, meter base, meter boxes, service entrance conductors, and permanent wiring to detached garages, sheds, outdoor fixtures, and pools.
Flexible options
Some providers offer flexible options such as standalone electrical line protection plans or bundled plans that include surge protection. You can also choose the level of coverage that suits your needs, with options ranging from $5.99/month for up to $1,000 in annual coverage to plans that offer up to $3,000 in annual coverage.
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Underground or overhead electrical lines
There are two methods of installing electrical lines to homes: overhead and underground. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the suitability of each depends on factors such as terrain, cost, and aesthetics.
Overhead electrical lines are constructed by setting utility poles in the ground, which can be done in nearly any type of terrain. This method is less expensive to build and maintain, and it is easier to locate and repair faults or damage. However, overhead lines are more susceptible to extreme weather conditions, vehicle collisions, and damage from trees and vegetation. They are also considered less aesthetically pleasing and may be more vulnerable to outages caused by these factors.
Underground electrical lines, on the other hand, are installed by digging a trench and laying the wires directly in the trench or placing them in conduits for protection. Underground lines are protected from wind, wildfires, and tree branches, and damage from most animals. They are also aesthetically more pleasing and have a lower risk of starting wildfires or being interrupted by outages during high winds, thunderstorms, or heavy snow or ice storms. However, underground lines are more expensive to build and maintain, and it is time-consuming and costly to locate and repair malfunctions. They are also vulnerable to damage from earthquakes and flooding, and construction activities.
The choice between overhead and underground electrical lines depends on various factors, including terrain suitability, cost considerations, and the desired aesthetics of the area. In some cases, a combination of both methods may be used to provide the highest quality of service at the lowest possible price.
To protect against power outages and ensure reliable electrical service, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each method and make informed decisions about the installation and maintenance of electrical lines.
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Warning signs of electrical issues
Exterior electrical line protection plans can help you save money on repairs to your home's power lines. These plans provide coverage for vital exterior electric wiring, including overhead and underground lines, and can offer peace of mind in case of unexpected issues. While these plans are not mandatory, they can be a valuable investment to ensure timely and cost-effective repairs.
Now, here are some warning signs of electrical issues to watch out for:
Hot Outlets or Switch Plates
Even when an appliance generates heat, the outlet powering it should not become hot. If an outlet is uncomfortably hot, turn off and unplug the connected device and try it in another outlet. If the outlet remains hot even when nothing is plugged in, it may be wired incorrectly. Consult an electrician for guidance.
Frequently Blown Fuses or Tripped Breakers
While circuit breakers and fuses are designed to fail as a safety measure, frequent issues could indicate an overloaded circuit or an appliance malfunction. If a single outlet consistently blows the same fuse, consult an electrician to address the potential overload.
Dimming or Flickering Lights
Light fixtures typically draw a small amount of power, so dimming or flickering is rarely due to the fixture itself. Instead, the issue may lie with energy-intensive appliances or space heaters wired to the same circuit. Consult an electrician to redistribute the electrical load or install dedicated lines.
Odd Odors
A strange smell coming from an outlet or your fuse box could indicate an electrical issue. Turn off and unplug anything connected to the outlet and refrain from using it until a qualified electrician has inspected it.
Sparks
Seeing sparks, especially when plugging or unplugging cords, is a warning sign of a potential fire hazard. Stop using the outlet and consult an electrician to resolve the issue.
Remember, electricity should operate silently and smoothly. Any signs of buzzing, hot outlets, or flickering lights could indicate loose connections or wiring issues. Stay vigilant, and always prioritise your safety by consulting a qualified electrician when in doubt.
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Frequently asked questions
Issues with your exterior electrical lines can cause power outages throughout your home, garage, sheds, outdoor lights, and pool.
Basic homeowners' insurance does not typically cover electrical repairs due to ordinary wear and tear.
The plan covers the repair or replacement of exterior electrical components such as the weatherhead, insulator, riser, meter base, and service entrance conductor.
The cost of the plan varies depending on the provider and the level of coverage. Some plans offer up to $3,000 in annual coverage for a monthly fee of $4.99, while others offer up to $2,500 in coverage with additional benefits such as a 50% rebate for the first year.
