Why Install Surge Protection?

Power surges are a common cause of damage to electrical devices. In fact, they are probably more common than you think. Some of your electrical devices may have stopped working due to a power surge, and you may not even know it. Lightning strikes can be obvious causes of power surges, but often there are smaller power fluctuations that go unnoticed. And some appliances stop working without any warning signs.

This is why all households should have surge protection. A surge protector, as its name suggests, protects electronic devices from power surges. But what exactly is a power surge?

A power surge occurs when the voltage of the electric current that runs through the line is too high. In Australia, electrical wiring is set to a standard 240 volts. If the voltage in the electricity flow is higher, it can cause a power surge, and damage equipment such as computers and other electronics.

A surge protector is designed to protect your equipment by allowing only a safe voltage amount though to connected appliances. A surge protector kicks into gear if the voltage is higher than 253 volts.

Even if one surge does not destroy an appliance, it can cause wear and tear, and over time significantly damage your electrical equipment, which is why surge protectors can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Not all surge protectors are the same, with some offer greater protection than others. For example, some surge protectors might not protect your equipment against lightning strikes, which can send millions of volts through the power lines. Portable surge protectors look like standard power boards, and protect the devices that are connected to it.

Surge protectors can also be installed at power points. For best protection, it’s recommended that surge protectors be installed at the main switchboard by a licensed electrical contractor.

While surge protectors can protect your appliances from being damaged, it doesn’t mean you can be complacent about electrical safety. If there’s stormy weather outside, you should unplug as many appliances as possible, because a major lightning strike close to your home can cause a surge of power that no protector can handle. To really protect yourself against lightning strikes, you should have a lightning rod installed.

To work out what surge protection options are best for your home, contact your Brisbane electrician Matt Devitt Electrical.