Understanding the Importance of Surge Protectors

Unexpected power surges can harm appliances and electronics. Surge protectors are a cost-effective solution for keeping devices safe.

What Are Surge Protectors?

A surge protector is electrical safety equipment that prevents power surges from reaching and harming your equipment. We classify them into several distinct categories, each with unique characteristics.

Some will be wall-mounted, while others will cover the entire property and link directly to the wall. The wall-mounted variants allow you to connect additional devices using the available outlets.

Power strips commonly include surge protection. These can be useful for powering several devices while keeping them safe. It’s easy to choose a power strip without surge protection because they look like surge protectors.

Surge protectors block or limit excess voltage from damaging your electronics. They act as a shield against:

• Lightning strikes.
• Power outages.
• Electrical overloads.

Understanding Surge Protection

Knowing how surge protection works can help you decide whether you need one at home or work, and determine which type is best for your needs.

A surge protector works by diverting excess electricity from the equipment you’re trying to protect. It safely buries the excess electricity, preventing it from immediately flowing to the TV, computer, or other electrical device. You will need a surge protection device if your home or office is prone to lightning strikes or unpredictable power flow.

Benefits of Surge Protectors

• Device Protection: Prevents damage to sensitive electronics like computers and TVs.
• Cost Savings: Avoids expensive repairs or replacements.
• Prolonged Lifespan: Protects appliances from wear caused by voltage spikes.

Types of Surge Protectors

• Basic Power Strip Surge Protectors: Ideal for small devices.
• Whole-Home Surge Protectors: Installed at the main electrical panel for comprehensive protection.

Pro Tip: LK Electric offers expert installation of whole-home surge protectors for maximum safety.

How to Select the Right Surge Protection

When determining the requirement for voltage protection in the home, you should evaluate the type of location you want to cover and the gadgets that require protection. Ensure that the voltage rating of your surge protection device matches or exceeds the voltage rating of the electrical system it intends to use. For the most part, you’ll want 220-240 volts.

Then, look for your clamp voltage. This is the voltage at which your surge protector will deflect excess power. A lower clamping voltage gives your devices faster protection.

Consider how easily it will be to see the warning light or hear the sound of a surge protector. As they approach the end of their lifespan, they may flash or emit an alarm to indicate their imminent obsolescence. If you have excessively covered up your surge protector, you might not be able to see or hear these things clearly.

If you simply have a few objects to safeguard, you could also consider a surge protection plug. This plug connects to a wall outlet and protects you from having individual goods harmed by a power surge.

Finally, ensure that any surge protection equipment you purchase has a warranty and appropriate certification to demonstrate that it meets the required safety standards.

When to Replace Your Surge Protector

Surge protectors degrade over time. Replace them every 3-5 years or after a significant power surge.

Protect your electronics with professional-grade surge protectors from LK Electric. Call 416-505-1115 for a consultation today.