Surge protection devices (SPDs), also known as lightning protection devices, is an electronic device that provides safety protection for various electronic equipment, instruments and communication lines. When the electrical circuit or communication line suddenly produces a power surge due to external interference, the surge protector can conduct the shunt in a very short time, thus avoiding the damage to other equipment in the circuit.
A power surge is basically a spike in your home's electrical current. The spike is very brief, usually lasting less than a thousandth of a second, but it can still cause damage to your home and appliances. A power surge can damage or destroy home appliances, and in a worse case scenario, start a house fire.
These are some of the top causes of power surges:
- Lightning storms
- Turning high-powered electrical divorces off and on rapidly
- Downed power lines
- Damaged or faulty wiring
Principle of SPD
SPD is designed to limit transient overvoltages of atmospheric origin and divert current waves to earth, so as to limit the amplitude of this overvoltage to a value that is not hazardous for the electrical installation and electric switchgear and controlgear.
The Benefits of Using SPD
The number of gadgets the average homeowner has is said to have increased considerably over the last decade alone. Computers, tablets, televisions, and smartphones all carry essential information to one’s identity and need to be protected. With whole-house surge protection, this protection is guaranteed.
- Saves Money on Electrical Repair
Spikes and surges in the grid can also take a toll on your home’s electrical system. Depending on the strength and duration of the spike, a power surge may blow your service panel or even cause damage to the electrical wiring inside your walls. A whole-house surge protection device can help you avoid needing electrical repairs due to power surge damage.
- Helps Keep the Power On
Although power surges don’t always knock out the power, some surges are strong enough to do so. A whole home surge protector can be your first line of defense against power outages caused by power surges by protecting your homes electrical system.
- Surge protectors protect you from fire
How bad can things get if your electric device gets fried? It’s bad enough that your $1000 notebook got destroyed by a massive energy surge. The problem is, it might spark or emit heat, and this can set aflame flammable materials that are nearby. In other words, it may start a house fire.
Believe it or not, electrical malfunctions, shorts, and surges account for a large chunk of home fires. Do yourself a big favor, make sure you use a surge protector on all your electronic devices, especially heavy-duty appliances like laundry units, dishwashers, and refrigerators.
- They Are Affordable
Whole house surge protectors are very affordable; only a few hundred dollars. They can be installed the same day, which means you can start protecting your home for a fraction of the cost you may incur to repair one of your appliances.
As we face storm season, we encourage you now, more than ever to consider investing in whole-house surge protection for the various important reasons listed above. Having that added level of protection and peace of mind can protect your home, your electronics, and your wallet.