Worried about your home’s electrical safety? Well, you don’t need to anymore because we are here to brief you about products that will help safeguard electric points. Nowadays, electrical surges have become one of the most common reasons for electricity-related issues. A sporadic fluctuation in the voltage levels can significantly impact the plugged-in appliances as well as the users.
As a result, it has become imperative for individuals to get electrical surge safety equipment installed at their places. Before getting them installed, it is also important that individuals become completely aware of surge protection available for their homes. So, let us find out how surge protectors offer electrical safety.
Understanding the Reason Behind Electrical Surges
Electrical surges are generally known as voltage or power surges, which are basically sudden and temporary increases in electrical voltage within a power system. Here are a few reasons that can cause the voltage levels to spike:
- Lightning Strikes
When lightning strikes near a power line or a building, it can send a surge of electricity through the wiring.
- Switching of High-Powered Devices
When large appliances or machinery with high power demands turn on or off, it can create a surge in the electrical system.
- Faulty Wiring
Poorly installed or damaged wiring can lead to irregularities in voltage.
- Utility Grid Issues
Problems within the electrical grid itself, such as faults or sudden changes in demand, can cause surges.
- Malfunctions in the Electrical System
Issues with transformers, capacitors, or other components can also lead to surges.
- Downed Power Lines
If a power line is damaged or falls to the ground, it can cause a surge when it makes contact with the earth.
It is important to highlight the fact that surge protectors are effective in making electricity use safe. However, surge protection installed for minor surges may only provide partial protection against extremely powerful surges.
Regardless of the cause, power surges potentially damage electrical appliances. In such cases, additional measures like lightning rods and grounding systems help safeguard against potential damage.
Now that you are aware of the reasons for electrical hazards due to surges let’s understand how surge protection devices offer safety.
How do Surge Protectors Work in Homes?
Imagine a surge protector as a vigilant guardian stationed between your electronic devices and the power source. They work by diverting excess voltage away from connected devices, helping to prevent damage.
When a surge occurs, it’s like a sudden wave of electricity threatening to harm your devices. As a result, it can lead to a financially stressful situation of replacing such equipment, which can be overwhelming. Therefore, besides acting as a cost-effective barrier, surge protection also safeguards your investments from unexpected voltage fluctuations.
They have two major components that make them an effective electrical safety solution. They are as follows:
- Varistor
The primary component within a surge protector that enables this protective function is a semiconductor known as a varistor. They are sensitive to voltage changes and stand as the first line of defence against surges. In case the voltage exceeds a certain threshold, the varistor acts as an electricity flow breaker, diverting excess voltage away from the connected devices.
- Gas Discharge Arrestors
Some of the surge protection devices incorporate components called gas discharge arrestors. They are included to provide an additional layer of electrical safety alongside varistors. Gas discharge arrestors function by creating a conductive path for excess voltage to be safely discharged. This further results in shielding connected devices and preventing any electrical appliance damage.
Embracing the Use of Surge Protectors at Homes
In the present times, electricity plays quite a significant role in daily activities at home, from using lights and fans to electric stoves and cookers. Therefore, it is essential to ensure their electrical safety with top-quality surge protection products. To make your appliances last long and avoid electrical hazards, connect with a trusted partner offering reliable electrical safety solutions.
