A surge protector is an affordable way to protect your electronics from random power surges that can cause permanent electrical damage. You probably will only realize a power surge has happened once a device suddenly stops working. Your home may experience hundreds of electrical surges every year. A surge protector guards against the damage that sudden power surges can cause.
A power surge is an increase in the amount of voltage flowing through electrical devices that exceeds the standard voltage level of 120 volts. Surges can be caused by many things such as high-powered devices, bad wiring, incorrect lightning, or a problem with your utility company’s equipment. Even when surges do not break an electronic, they can put excess strain on internal components and cause them to fail sooner than expected.
A surge protector works by pulling the current from one outlet and passing it through to the devices you have plugged into the surge protector. A surge protector contains a metal oxide varistor, or MOV, which diverts any extra voltage to ensure devices receive a consistent power level.
The MOV works like a pressure-sensitive valve. When the MOV detects high voltage levels, it reduces resistance. If voltage levels are too low, it increases resistance. It will kick in automatically to redirect excess voltage.
As a general rule, you should prioritize using your surge protector for electronics that are expensive to repair or replace. Newer appliances are more sensitive to power surges than older electronics thanks to more delicate and smaller components. Microprocessors that are found in computers and many appliances are most sensitive to high voltage and only work when they receive a stable current within the right voltage range.
What Should You Plug into Your Surge Protector?
Examples of items that can be protected by a surge protector include:
● Computers
● Televisions
● Microwaves
● Modems/routers
● Video game systems (such as a PlayStation 4 or an Xbox One)
● High-end audio equipment
● Surge Protectors Will Not Always Work
Unfortunately, it is a mistake to assume that your devices are 100% protected from surges with a surge protector. There are many reasons surge protectors may fail. For instance, surge protectors simply are not designed to last forever. Choose one with an indicator light that lets you know when the MOV has worn out. Many will continue to work but without surge protection in place.
We at Franco’s Electric can help you get protection against dangerous power surges. Call us and request a free estimate. We can also help you with electrical repairs, installation, and maintenance, as well as generator installation.
