Surge protectors help safeguard electronics from increases in voltage. Normal voltage, as that supplied by a typical wall-socket is a steady 120 volts of electrical current, but occasionally, this number may increase slightly. Voltages higher than 120 volts can damage your electrical devices in much the same way that too much wind can destroy your favorite kite.
How They Work
A typical surge protector works by breaking the flow of current to your devices when it detects a spike in voltage. Of course this also shuts down your devices, and some models of surge protectors require a physical reset to get the power flowing again. Because of this, never use a surge protector that has any burn marks on its cord or body as the breaker or circuitry inside may have been compromised.
Types of Surge Protectors
There are more sophisticated, even battery powered types of surge protectors that allow your devices to function without interruption in the case of power spikes. However, lightning strikes and regular voltage spikes are two very different matters. While some surge protectors claim to protect against lightning strikes, it is much safer to unplug all electronic devices for the duration of storms that contain heavy lightning.
Call our office today to learn more about your surge protection needs and we will help safeguard your home from any electrical failures that may develop in the future.
