Let’s start by correcting a common misconception. A surge protector is not the power strip that you plug into an outlet. For the sake of keeping things clear for the rest of this blog post, we’ll refer to this device as simply a power strip because, well, that’s what it is!
A surge protector, on the other hand, while some versions of it can be plugged into an outlet, is actually installed within your electrical panel. This can be an investment that offers incredible protection for your electrical appliances and your electrical system at large.
Here’s what you should know about surge protectors and if one is worth your money. (Here’s a hint: it absolutely is!)
What a Surge Protector Does
A surge protector is a component of a home’s electrical system designed to protect against power surges. This system is going to help offer protection for the entirety of your home’s electrical system, not just one or two outlets.
Able to react to a damaging power surge in less than a second, a surge protector redirects extra electricity into the ground, preventing it from affecting the appliances in your home, such as your laptop or air conditioner. This is going to help in situations such as when there are…
- Power outages that create surges throughout your home.
- Electrical appliances that break down and cause surges.
- Sudden electrical changes such as a lightning strike.
Why a Surge Protector Is Important
Don’t be fooled: power surges don’t only occur during a lightning storm. There are small power surges running through your home’s electrical system on a regular basis, such as whenever powerful electrical appliances turn on or off. While not all power surges will harm the appliances in your home, they will wear them down more rapidly.
This is where your surge protector comes into play. This appliance, installed within your electrical system, helps to absorb and redirect the majority of the excess electricity. While around 15% of the electricity can still get through, a surge protector will prevent the damage that this energy could cause to the different parts and appliances connected to the electrical system that would otherwise reduce the appliances’ lifespan.
Can You Install a Surge Protector Yourself?
Again, surge protectors and power strips are not the same things. Yes, you can install (plug-in) that power strip. But when it comes to installing a surge protector into your electrical panel, that isn’t something you should ever try yourself.
Let’s be perfectly clear: adding or altering anything in your electrical system over and above changing a lightbulb is best left in the hands of a professional electrician. This is especially true for surge protectors since they are hardwired into the household electrical system.
For help with installing a surge protector in your home, make sure to work with one of our expert electricians in Ashland, KY. We provide top-quality services that you can count on.
Your HVAC experts in Flatwoods, KY: Contact Air Supreme Heating and Air Conditioning for any of your electrical needs.