what is surge protection

Electrical

The answer to 'what is surge protection' is surge protection is a device that helps protect your home's electrical system and appliances from sudden, unexpected spikes in electrical current, known as power surges. These surges can be caused by lightning strikes, power grid problems, or even from large appliances turning on and off within your own home. Surge protectors work by diverting the excess voltage away from your sensitive electronics, preventing damage and potential fire hazards.

Surge protectors come in a variety of forms, from power strips with built-in surge protection to whole-home surge protectors that are installed at your electrical panel. They are an important safeguard for any home, helping to extend the life of your electronics and appliances by shielding them from potentially harmful power fluctuations.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Choose the right surge protector

    Consider the size of your home, the number of devices you need to protect, and the joule rating (the amount of excess energy the surge protector can absorb) when selecting a surge protector.

  2. 2

    Install the surge protector properly

    Plug the surge protector directly into a grounded outlet, not an extension cord. Make sure to keep it away from heat sources and liquids.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need surge protection for my whole home?

While power strips with surge protection can help protect individual devices, a whole-home surge protector installed at your electrical panel is recommended to safeguard your entire electrical system.

How do I know if my surge protector is working?

Most surge protectors have indicator lights that show when the protection is active. If the lights go out, it's a sign the surge protector needs to be replaced.

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