Last Updated on November 16, 2022 by
Surge Protector
Do you ever worry about a power surge destroying your household appliances and electronics? Power surges can harm all of your home’s equipment and devices. A power surge can permanently destroy your gadgets by burning the circuits and melting the plastic if it is large enough.
Surge protectors are small appliances or devices that serve two purposes. The first is to allow several components to be plugged into a single power socket. The second and more crucial role is safeguarding your electronic gadgets from high-voltage power surges, such as your television or computer. A power failure or Spike occurs when the voltage in the power supply rises above a predetermined level.
How does a surge protector work?
A conventional surge protector distributes electrical current to several devices hooked into the power strip via the outlet. The protector will channel excess electricity into the outlet grounding wire if the voltage rises over the permitted threshold. Complementary to the hot & neutral wires are grounding wires. If the network of hot & neutral wires that ordinarily carry the current breaks down, they give a path for electric charge to follow.
A surge is a voltage increase that lasts for three nanoseconds or more extended. A spike is a voltage surge that lasts only one or two nanoseconds. That’s it; that’s the distinction. However, if the surge is large enough, those nanoseconds, or billionths of a minute, can harm a system.
What is the most common cause of surges and spikes?
Lightning is among the most well-known causes, despite its rarity. High-power devices, including such air conditioners, elevators, and freezers, are among the most typical causes. It takes more energy to turn the compressors & motors inside and off. When switching, it causes rapid, transient power demands, causing the current constant voltage flow to be disrupted. The damage usually happens in the building’s electrical system. It might be immediate if the system is not protected, or it can happen over time if the system is not secured.
The most typical causes of power surges are faulty wiring, problems with the utility company’s equipment, and downed power lines. There are numerous points in the complicated system of transformers & lines that supply electricity to your house. An error could create an uneven power flow, resulting in a power surge.
Is there a difference between a surge protector and a power strip?
It’s worth noting that not all surge protectors are power strips. While they may appear to be identical, the primary purpose of the power cord is to provide additional plug space. It can be tough to tell when the difference does not come out and say it. When trying to figure out what you’re buying, glance at the packaging. There should be a joules rating on the box of a surge protector.
The unit of energy measurement is the joule. They calculate the amount of time your appliances would be protected. The joules, or numbers, act as a reservoir.
Performing duties
When the protector performs its duties, it suffers a hit, and the joules decrease over time. It can take just one massive surge to push it past its limitations or take numerous small surges. Surge Protectors: How Long Do They Last? How Then do I Understand When They Need to Be Replaced?
Keeping track of peaks and surges might aid in determining when a new protector is required. Following a significant hit, the number of joules may well be reduced, and your gadgets may no longer be protected. It’s also important to know when the surge protector was bought. Depending on the amount and strength of surges, a decent surge protector can last two to four years.
A good rule of thumb is to change them every two years. Most will remain to “function” without offering protection, and you will be unaware that your gadgets are in danger. If you’re lucky, the protector may give you a warning or turn off their protection when it falls under a safe level.
Is it possible to use a surge protector with an extension cord?
You can technically do so if the cord can carry the same quantity of electricity as the surge protector, if not more. You should not, though, because it is a fire risk. It’s worth noting that it’s against OSHA and the National Electric Code (NEC).
Read More: What Is Variance In Real Estate? Types Of Variances, And How To Get A Variance In Real Estate?
Is there a need for another surge protector?
Plugging one power strip into another violates OSHA and NEC standards once more. It also undermines the aim of the exercise. When another device is plugged into a surge protector, its protection capabilities may be hampered, and neither device may be able to do its function efficiently. Most warranties will be void if it is discovered that the malfunction was caused by putting them in here on top of one another.
While you don’t have to use a surge protector for every light, it’s a good idea to use one to safeguard your expensive electronics from just being destroyed during a major outage.
Suggestions for selecting a surge protector
Keep in mind what such a surge protector is or how it works before you go out and buy a surge suppressor for your gadgets. The following are the most crucial factors to consider:
- Consider what you wish to safeguard.
- Purchase the appropriate port number or outlets.
- Verify that it is UL-listed and voltage fluctuations surge protector.
- Look for a guarantee and check its clamping voltage & energy absorption rating.
- Make sure it has an indicator light.
What is a surge protector superior to?
Instantaneous power sources (UPS) act as momentary backup power, whereas a surge suppressor acts as a power cord. When the primary source of power fails, UPS devices function independently and supply electricity. A UPS safeguards both users and equipment during a power outage.
