WHAT IS AN ELECTRICAL SURGE?
A surge is a brief over voltage spike, or disturbance on a power waveform that can damage, degrade, or destroy electronic equipment within a home. Most electrical devices are designed to withstand minor variations in their standard operating voltage, however a surge can be very damaging in no protection is provided.
WHAT CAUSES A SURGE?
It is a common misconception that a lightning strike is the most common cause of a surge. In fact, 80% are transient and are generated inside the home. This occurs when generators and motors found inside furnaces and appliances create these short, intense bursts. These mini-surges have a cumulative effect on electrical devices and degrade their performance, cutting down their lifespan.
An Over voltage in a utility line can also harm your electrical systems, making whole home surge protection essential as it protects all circuits downstream of the electrical panel.
HOW DO SURGE PROTECTORS WORK?
Once it is connected to your load center, metal oxide varistors (MOVs) are able to redirect electrical surges to the ground in order to dissipate the excess energy. The MOVs are UL rated on response time and surge rating. These surge protection devices require a proper connection to ground in order to properly divert the spike in voltage away from the electrical devices. As a result, older homes may require a review of it’s electrical system.
WHAT CAN YOU AFFORD TO LOSE?
A lot has changed inside a home, there has been a huge technology evolution leading to more electronics we are plugging into our houses. Think of all the electronics in your home; appliances, televisions, computers, game consoles, air conditioning, security systems and everything in between. Now imagine if a surge occurred, and the cost of damages you would face if you had to replace everything. Providing your home with surge protection at every level, you can be rest assured that you are covered. Surge protectors also come with a warranty and can offer up to $75,000 to cover damages to equipment downstream of the surge protector.
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