Surge Protectors And How They Work

Electrical power surges are almost unavoidable in the current electrical system. Power surge happens when the voltage flowing through the wiring is higher than normal, and it usually lasts for a few seconds.

While larger and heavier equipment are somewhat immune to this phenomenon, smaller and more delicate appliances do not fare well under power surges.

As technology continues to advance, our gadgets and appliances get smaller. The increasing sophistication of the inner components, especially the microprocessor, compensates for the gradual size reduction of these gadgets.

The microprocessors’ complexity and delicateness make them very sensitive to power surges. In fact, should a power surge be sufficiently large, it can cause permanent and irreparable damage to your electronics.

This tells you that to ensure the smooth and protected running of your electronic gadgets at home or work, you have to ensure that a stable current and voltage is supplied.

How can you do this? This is a million-dollar question to which we have the right answer – surge protectors.

What Is A Surge Protector?

Surge protectors are small appliances that are designed in such a way that they can protect your appliances in case of a high voltage power surge.

They serve as a shield, a screen for electrical voltage. By default, the general specifications for a surge protector ensure that it blocks electricity flow to your electronics should the voltage be more than 120 volts.

However, depending on the specific utility, they can be tweaked to provide protection to match the sensitivity of your special electronics.

These small appliances come with an added benefit. Apart from protecting your gadgets, they double as extensions that allow you to plug more devices into a single socket outlet.

How Do They Work?

The sensitivity of the processors in your gadgets ensure that each one of them has unique voltage requirements that must be supplied stably.

While your wall socket serves as means of connection to a power source, it can’t guarantee the steadiness and stability of electricity. The surge protector comes into play here.

Based on its manufacturing specifications (usually 120 volts), the surge protector ensures that power voltage surpassing its rated value doesn’t reach your electronic gadgets.

The excess power is diverted to your home’s earth wiring, where it is sent into the earth. To know if your house has an earth wiring, you can contact a level 2 electrician for consultation.

When Should You Use Surge Protectors?

Not all devices that use electrical current need a surge protector.

You should focus on protecting those devices that use microprocessors and microchips. The bigger guys can take care of themselves as they are mostly immune to power surges.

Computers, TVs, soundbars, home projectors, and other components found in an entertainment system last longer when they are plugged into a surge protector.

Using a surge protector ensures that you protect your devices from unwanted damages due to unexpected power surges.