What is a surge protector?
What Is an AC surge protective Device?
An AC surge protective device (SPD)is an electrical device that protects electronic devices and systems from voltage spikes or power surges. Surges can occur as the result of a lightning strike, Switching operations on the power grid, electrical fault events, or other unforeseen electrical events. An AC surge protective device is designed to permit excess voltage to be directed away from the electronic device that would be exposed to a voltage spike.
In order to provide effective surge protection, surge protectors should be installed in the main electrical panel of your home or business or near sensitive devices (computers, televisions, routers, etc.). The surge protector will silently protect (i.e., protect against damage) both the electrical appliances that you own.
How Does an AC Surge Protector Work?
AC surge protection circuits typically work by redirecting excess current to ground. When a surge occurs, the surge protector detects the surge voltage and immediately goes into action. Instead of routing the extra energy through your appliance, it sends this energy through the ground wire to provide safety for your appliances.
Modern surge protectors rely on modern components including MOVs (Metal Oxide Varistors), which make up the main components of surge protection devices (SPDs).
At normal operating voltages, the MOV has a large resistance value, and as such, it acts as a barrier for high voltage events (surges), preventing an excessive amount of electricity from reaching your appliances.
Reasons for Using an SPD
Power surges can occur more than you think, and their impact can be damaging if protection is not used. Below are important reasons to invest in an AC surge protector:
- Protect sensitive electronics: Modern electronics have a high level of sensitivity to voltage fluctuations. Using a surge protection device will protect your equipment from damage due to power surges.
- Reduce financial loss: Repairing or replacing damaged electronics can be costly. Investing in surge protection will save you from unexpected costs over the life of your system.
- Minimize downtime: In the business world, time is money. When there is a power surge, companies lose valuable time and money from their operations being disrupted.
- Electrical safety: Over-voltage will result in electrical fires. An SPD will reduce the likelihood of this from happening, as they are designed to safely dissipate any excess voltage.
Types of Surge Protectors
There are different types of surge protectors available that can be used to protect against power surges. Each of these types of devices will provide protection in different ways.
1. Type 1 Surge Protection Devices
Type 1 surge protective devices (SPDs) are put in place at the main electrical panel and provide protection against high-energy surges coming from external sources like lightning strikes.
2. Type 2 Surge Protection Devices
Type 2 surge protective devices (SPDs) are placed on the downstream side of the main electrical panel and provide surge protection for branch circuits. These SPDs will provide protection for moderate energy surges caused by utility switching operations or utility grid issues.
3. Type 3 Surge Protection Devices
Type 3 surge protective devices (SPDs) are referred to as point-of-use SPDs. They are used to provide localized protection to sensitive electronic equipment, such as computers or televisions, from low-level energy surges.
Common Scenarios for Voltage Surges
Below are some examples of common scenarios that create voltage surges and justify the need for surge protection:
Lightning Strikes: A lightning strike can introduce a tremendous amount of energy into electrical systems. It will create surges that can cause damage to any device that is connected to those electrical systems.
Power Interruptions: When electrical utility companies restore power after a power interruption, the amount of energy that is introduced into the electrical system from the electric utility company's restoration activities can create surges that damage sensitive electronic equipment.
Heavy Equipment: If your building shares the same grid with heavy machinery, then the operation of motors and compressors will create surges in the electrical system that will affect all electrical equipment that is connected to that grid.
Key Features When Selecting AC Surge Protective Devices
When selecting an AC Surge Protective Device SPD for your application, the following items are important features to consider when selecting an SPD:
- Clamping Voltage: The clamping voltage is the voltage level at which the SPD will begin to work. Choose a device with a low clamping voltage for better sensitivity.
- Response Time: The faster the surge protector reacts, the better protection it provides. Look for a surge protection device with a response time in nanoseconds.
- Maximum Surge Current: This indicates the maximum amount of surge energy that the device can absorb. The higher the number, the more protection the device will offer against severe surges.
- Durability: Choose a surge protector with robust housing and quality construction to ensure long-lasting protection.
- Indicator Lights: Many SPDs feature indicator lights to show whether the device is functioning properly, offering additional peace of mind.
How to Install AC Surge Protection Devices
For safety and effectiveness, most surge protection devices should be installed by a licensed electrician, especially Type 1 and Type 2 surge protection devices, which require professional installation due to their connection to the main electrical panel. Type 3 point-of-use surge protection devices, such as surge protector power strips, can be simply plugged into a wall outlet and do not require the assistance of an electrician.
FAQs About AC Surge Protection Devices
1. Why Use Surge Protection Devices?
Surge protection devices provide protection for electrical appliances from damage due to sudden voltage surges. Surge protection devices are important investments for families and businesses using electronic devices.
2. What Are Surge Protection Devices?
Surge protection devices (SPDs) are electronic devices designed to protect electrical equipment from voltage spikes (also known as surges). SPDs redirect excess voltage to the grounding system, which protects the electrical devices connected to the electrical system from shock and allows for the reliable operation of those devices.
3. How Does an AC Surge Protector Work?
An AC surge protector works by monitoring the electrical system for voltage surges and redirecting excess voltage to the earth. This process helps prevent electrical devices from experiencing shock and/or damage.
4. Can I Use a Power Strip as a Surge Protector?
Not all power strips are surge protection devices. Make sure to purchase power strips that are specifically labeled as surge protection devices and have adequate ratings for clamping voltage and surge energy absorption.
Conclusion
We are all reliant on our electronic devices in this day and age, which makes acquiring an AC surge protection device necessary. Purchasing a top-quality surge protection device not only protects your equipment from unforeseen damage due to voltage surges or spikes but also extends the life of your electrical appliances while providing you with uninterrupted service. Whether you purchase a whole-house surge protection device or a simple point-of-use surge protection device, the benefits of protective surge protection devices greatly exceed their costs. Be smart, protect your devices today and avoid costly interruptions tomorrow.