What are Surge Protection Devices?
Surge protection devices (SPDs) are electrical devices that are installed to protect electrical equipment from voltage surges induced by lightning strikes, power outages or downed lines. They work by diverting excess voltage to ground before it can damage sensitive electronic devices.
Types of Surge Protectors There are a few main types of surge protectors that differ in the level of protection they provide:
Power Strip Surge Protectors Power strip surge protectors are the most basic type. They plug directly into a wall outlet and provide surge protection for equipment plugged into the strip, such as computers, printers, TVs, and other electronics. Power strip protectors work to absorb voltage spikes and redirect excess energy to ground. They are ideal for protecting multiple devices but may not guard against large surges.
Sensitive electronics like computers and televisions benefit from a Surge Protection Devices by being safeguarded against sudden increases in voltage, ensuring their longevity and functionality.
Outlet Surge Protectors
Outlet surge protectors install directly into a wall outlet, replacing the standard outlet cover plate. This type of protector safeguards all equipment plugged into it. Outlet protectors work in a similar way to power strips by clamping voltage spikes and shunting excess energy to ground. They are a step up from power strips in providing whole-outlet coverage.
Plug-in Surge Protectors Plug-in protectors are installed individually for important equipment like computers, TVs or audio/video components. They plug directly into the device itself for maximum surge protection of that single component. Plug-in units can often withstand significantly higher voltage capacities than power strip or outlet protectors.
Hardwire Surge Protectors
For critical systems, hardwired SPDs installs directly into the main electrical service panel. It requires professional installation but provides premium protection for an entire home or building's electrical infrastructure. Hardwired units act as the first line of defense against incoming surges from utility lines or nearby lighting strikes.
How Surge Protectors Work All surge protectors utilize the same basic mechanism to shield electronics from voltage spikes: 1. The protector remains inactive under normal voltages. Household current is about 120 volts and passes through uninterrupted. 2. When a surge introduces excess voltage, semiconductor protectors inside the unit realize there is a problem and begin diverting current. 3. Semi-conductor components act like diodes and clamp the voltage at a safe threshold to prevent spikes from reaching connected equipment. 4. Excess energy is shunted to ground through a grounding wire before damage can occur. The unit sacrifices itself to save downstream devices. 5. Once the surge passes, semiconductors reset and the protector returns to a passive state, ready to protect again from the next transient voltage event.
Choosing the Right Surge Protector When selecting a surge protector, there are a few key factors to consider: Location - Will it be used for a single important device or to safeguard multiple items? Exposure - How likely is the area to experience direct or indirect surges (near outdoor lines, high strike areas, etc.)? Voltage rating - Highest threshold the unit can withstand before failure (600V, 1200V, etc.). Higher is better. Joule rating - Amount of surge current the protector can absorb without failure. More joules equates to stronger protection. Response time - How quickly the protectors detect and react to problematic voltage spikes in microseconds. Faster is better. Warranty - Coverage length in case of failure. Reputable brands provide lifetime guarantees on protection.
Proper Installation For surge protectors to work optimally, they must be installed correctly.
Make sure to: Position away from direct water spray or excessive heat sources which can damage components. Use short, direct power connections without long dangling cords when possible. Employ a direct grounding wire connection for outlet/hardwired protectors to a known earth ground. Plug protectors directly into grounded outlets, not into power strips themselves which can overload. Consider a backup whole-home surge protector at the main service panel for comprehensive coverage. With the right selection, installation, and maintenance, surge protectors provide effective first-line defense against costly power transient damage.
Their upfront cost is usually far outweighed by the value of equipment they are safeguarding. Surge protection devices are crucial electrical system components that help shield electronics from voltage spikes. Understanding the different types, proper usage considerations and installation best practices allows consumers to implement comprehensive surge protection strategies for homes and businesses. With widespread utilization, SPDs can save thousands in avoided repairs from surges over their lifetime.
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Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)
