ABB THQLSURGE2 Type 1 Surge Protective Device • Whole House Protector
Quick take
The ABB THQLSURGE2 is a Type 1 whole-house surge protective device designed to protect a home or office at the breaker panel level on 120/240 VAC electrical systems. It uses a plug-in style connection and includes an LED indicator for operational status, but buyers say it can take extra planning for panel space because it may span more positions than a typical breaker.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Whole-house, Type 1 SPD approach for breaker-panel surge protection (120/240 VAC).
- Up to 25kA surge handling capacity per phase.
- LED indicator helps confirm operational status at a glance.
- Reported as straightforward to install and compatible with GE PowerMark load centers.
Cons
- Physical footprint can require rearranging breakers, since it may be wider than expected.
- “Working” is not obvious in daily use, aside from the status LED, so real protection can feel hard to verify.
- Not smart home compatible, so there is no app-based monitoring.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence points to generally positive installation experience and confidence in the added protection, with multiple comments describing it as easy to install and performing as expected. A recurring practical note is spacing and fit: the unit may occupy more breaker positions than some shoppers anticipate, so planning panel layout matters. Beyond that, buyers mention the LED status indicator provides reassurance, but it can still be hard to know beyond the light whether the device is “actively working,” which is normal for surge protectors since they only respond when surges occur. Overall buyer-review themes center on install usability, panel compatibility (especially with GE PowerMark), and the value of added system-level protection.
What is the ABB THQLSURGE2 and who is it for?
The ABB THQLSURGE2 (model THQLSURGE2) is a breaker-panel surge protective device (SPD) intended to help protect connected electrical equipment across the home when voltage spikes happen. Because it is a Type 1 SPD, it is commonly selected when you want surge protection built into the service entrance or upstream panel protection strategy rather than relying only on point-of-use power strips.
This unit is designed for 120/240 VAC systems and uses a two-pole configuration, with a surge handling capacity listed at 25kA per phase. It is intended for installation in a load center, including service entrance, subpanel locations, or within compatible load centers.
Best fit for: homeowners and small commercial users who want system-level, breaker-panel surge protection and have a suitable space for a Type 1 SPD in their 120/240 VAC panel.
Likely not a great fit for: buyers who need smart home monitoring, or anyone who cannot accommodate the device’s breaker-panel footprint (since panel layout and spacing can require moving breakers).
Key features that matter day to day
Type 1 whole-house protection at the panel
Instead of only protecting one outlet, this SPD is meant to protect at the electrical system level (breaker-panel level). For many buyers, this is the main reason to choose a whole-house Type 1 device.
Surge handling capacity (25kA per phase)
The surge protective device is rated for up to 25kA per phase. While surge conditions are unpredictable, this rating is one of the primary spec points shoppers use to gauge how robust the SPD is.
LED indicator for status
The built-in LED is intended to display operational status, giving you a quick visual check once installed.
Plug-on installation and panel compatibility
Buyers report easy installation and specific fit with GE PowerMark load centers. The connection style is plug-in, designed to simplify installation compared with devices that require more complicated wiring.
Installation and fit: the biggest practical consideration
Most complaints about this category are really about panel space, and this model is no exception.
Tip before you buy: check your panel’s available space and breaker layout to confirm you can physically fit the SPD where you plan to install it. If you are unsure, consult a licensed electrician to verify fit and compatibility with your specific load center model.
Pros and cons summary
- Choose it if: you want whole-house (Type 1) surge protection at the breaker panel level, and you have space for a two-pole SPD that may occupy more positions than a typical breaker.
- Skip it if: you need smart monitoring, or your panel is tightly packed such that rearranging breakers is not feasible.
Price and availability
Pricing can vary over time. At the time of writing, the product is listed as available but with limited quantity (“only 13 left in stock”). If you want this specific model, it may be worth checking the latest price and availability before committing to a purchase.
Final verdict
The ABB THQLSURGE2 is a solid whole-house Type 1 surge protector option for shoppers who want panel-level protection, a straightforward plug-on install experience, and an LED status indicator. The main caveat is physical fit and breaker spacing, so measure or plan for the possibility that it may take more panel real estate than you expect. If you can accommodate it, it can be a practical way to add surge protection across the home’s electrical system.
FAQ
Is the ABB THQLSURGE2 compatible with GE PowerMark load centers?
It is reported as compatible with GE PowerMark load center models. Still, because panels can vary, it is smart to verify fit for your specific load center layout and available space before installation.
What does the LED indicator mean?
The SPD includes an LED indicator intended to show operational status. If the LED is lit as expected after installation, it provides reassurance that the device is in an operational state.
How do I know if the surge protector is really working?
Surge protectors only actively respond during surge events, so there is typically no day-to-day performance meter. The LED indicator is the primary “at a glance” check for status, and beyond that the protection is designed to work automatically when surges occur.
Will this fit in my breaker panel?
Fit depends on available space and breaker layout. Buyers note that the device can be wider than expected for a two-pole breaker and may span multiple breaker positions, so it is important to plan the panel layout before installing.
Is this smart home compatible?
No, it is not smart home compatible, so it does not offer app-based monitoring.
What is “Type 1” in a whole-house surge protective device?
Type 1 describes a surge protective device class used for certain installation configurations that provide panel or service entrance level protection. If you are specifically looking for Type 1 whole-house protection, this model is built for that category.
Specifications
| Product Title | ABB THQLSURGE2 Type 1 Surge Protective Device • Whole House Protector • 120/240 VAC 25kA Per Phase • Pigtail Connection • Breaker Panel Surge Protection • LED Indicator • 2 Spaces |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Accessories & Supplies > Power Strips & Surge Protectors > Surge Protectors |
| Brand | ABB INDIA Solutions & Services |
| Manufacturer | GE ENERGY INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS |
| Item Weight | 7.36 ounces |
| Brand Name | ABB INDIA Solutions & Services |
| Model | THQLSURGE2 |
| UPC | 783164678246 |
| Part Number | THQLSURGE2 |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Included Components | THQLSURGE2 |
| Current Rating | 20 Amps |
| Circuit Breaker Type | Standard |
| Mounting Type | Plug-In Mount |
| Number of Poles | 2 |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| Number Of Poles | 2 |
Recommended next
Furman Power Conditioner (SS6B) black
The Furman SS6B is a 6-outlet, metal-chassis surge suppressor strip aimed at audio setups that need cleaner power and less EMI/RFI noise. It’s built for durability, includes a 15-foot cord, and has a circuit breaker, but it is not a “smart” power strip and only suits buyers who want power conditioning features more than extra outlet count.
Belkin 8-Outlet Surge Protector w/ 8 AC Outlets & 8ft Long Flat Plug
The Belkin 8-outlet surge protector is a compact, heavy-duty power strip built for desktop and home office setups where you need spaced outlets for chargers and larger plugs. With 2,500 joules of protection, UL certification, and per-outlet safety slide locks, it’s a solid pick for protecting electronics on a workstation, but it’s not a smart or battery backup option.
Philips 6-Outlet Extender Surge Protector, Wall Tap, 900 Joules, 3-Prong (SPP3461WA/37)
The Philips wall tap surge protector expands a single grounded duplex outlet into six grounded, three-prong outlets in a low-profile design. It includes a protection indicator LED and is ETL safety certified, with a 900-joule surge protection rating for everyday electronics like chargers, lamps, and small appliances.
Sleek Socket Original & Patented Ultra-Thin Outlet Concealer with Cord Concealer Kit (6-Foot, 6 Outlets)
Sleek Socket pairs an ultra-thin outlet concealer with a flat 6-foot extension power strip and surge protection, designed to reduce visible cords and plug clutter behind desks, furniture, and entertainment setups. It’s a strong fit for home office and home theater buyers who want a cleaner look and a secure, wall-hugging cable path, with the main caveat that the included adhesive cord-clips may take some patience to position exactly how you want.