With each new advancement modern technology makes, systems and appliances are becoming better at protecting themselves from various aspects of life and are being made tougher. This begs the question: Is it still necessary to have external protection from power surges? We at Raynor Services believe it is, and in this blog post, our goal is to explain why.
What Do Surge Protectors Do and How Do They Work?
Surge protectors shield electronics from voltage spikes caused by power surges, lightning strikes, or electrical malfunctions. They help to prevent damage to sensitive and expensive electronics like computers, televisions, and smart devices.
The main component inside a surge protector is a metal-oxide varistor (MOV). MOVs connect the electrified wire to a grounding wire and help to absorb excess voltage. They also contain thermal fuses to help prevent overheating and disconnect the MOVs if they get too hot.
Surge Protector vs. Power Strip: What’s the Difference?
While many consider these two terms to be interchangeable, they are, in fact, different pieces of equipment.
- Power strip: A power strip’s primary function is to provide multiple outlets from which various electrical appliances can be run or charged. However, a power strip offers no protection against surges.
- Surge protector: A surge protector includes features that absorb excess electricity and redirect the excess voltage away from your electronics, thus protecting them from damage.
Here are a couple of tips to help you tell if what you’re looking at is a surge protector:
- Joule rating: A joule rating measures a surge protector’s capacity to absorb energy from power surges and spikes
- Label: True surge protectors will also be labeled as such, while an extension cord will not be.
Why Are Surge Protectors Still Necessary?
As society progresses and our reliance on sensitive electronics increases, more appliances and electronics with valuable data can be damaged by electrical surges. Small surges happen daily that degrade devices over time without us even knowing. This shortens the lifespan of electronics, leading to more frequent replacements.
By installing a surge protector in your home, you protect yourself from those small everyday occurrences and against severe surges caused by lightning strikes and grid issues. A whole-house surge protector provides comprehensive protection, safeguarding all outlets and appliances at once.
Call Raynor Services for Electrical Wiring and Repair
When you need surge protectors installed, you can’t trust the job to just anyone. This is a critical piece of equipment that needs to be installed correctly for proper function. Raynor Services is the leading expert in installing surge protectors, both single-outlet and whole-house systems.
Our expert electricians can conduct wiring inspections to ensure electrical safety. We also offer repairs and upgrades to modernize your electrical system and ensure it’s up to the task of a modern-day electrical load. By doing so, you ensure you’re in compliance with all local safety codes.
Are you thinking of installing a surge protector in your home?
Contact Raynor Services for a free consultation or to schedule an installation today!
