The season of storms can be unpredictable. It is crucial to prepare your homes and workspaces against lightning strikes and power surges. Storm season brings thunderstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes, causing power surges that can wreak havoc on our electrical systems.
The damage can lead to expensive repairs and ruin your appliances and electronics. However, protective measures can protect your electrical devices and system. This article will explore proactive steps to safeguard your electrical system during storms, such as investing in surge protection devices.
We will discuss the importance and the different types of surge protection devices available. We will also provide tips on how to protect your electrical system during storms. Following these tips can effectively protect your electrical system and help you enjoy peace of mind during storm season.
What are Lightning Strikes?
Lightning is a natural phenomenon that takes place when the electric charge builds up in the atmosphere. It results in an electrical discharge between two points. These lightning strikes can damage your electrical systems and appliances by producing high-voltage surges.
Surge Protectors and the Importance of Surge Protection
Surge protectors are engineered to protect electric devices from voltage spikes or surges in the electrical system. A voltage spike or surge can occur due to a sudden increase in the energy flowing in a circuit. This can happen due to lightning strikes, thunderstorms, power outages, or other causes.
Surge protection is crucial for protecting your electrical systems from lightning strikes or power surges caused by storms. The surge protector diverts the excess voltage from electronic devices toward the ground, preventing potential damage.
Additionally, surge protection helps in preventing electrical fires from electrical surges. Electrical surges heat wires and ignite them, causing a fire. Surge protectors mitigate the risk of fires by diverting the excess voltage from the cables.
Moreover, surge protection extends the lifespan of electronic devices. Voltage spikes damage the internal components, leading to premature failures. By protecting internal components, you can extend the lifespan and save money in the long run.
Five Types of Surge Protection Devices
There are various types of surge protectors available in the market. The most common types of protectors are listed below:
- Power Strip Surge Protectors: These are simple power strips with built-in surge protection. They are affordable, protecting multiple devices at once.
- Whole-house Surge Protectors: These devices are installed at the main electrical panel of homes to protect your entire home from power surges. They are comparatively expensive yet provide better protection.
- Surge Protector Outlets: These surge protectors are built into the outlet itself. They function as an excellent substitute for power strip surge protectors.
- Portable Surge Protectors: These surge protection devices are designed for on-the-go use. They are compact and easy to carry – a good option for travellers.
- Under-carpet Surge Protectors: These devices are designed to protect electrical devices while being hidden under the carpet. They are installed underneath the carpet or floor, protecting devices such as computers, televisions, and other appliances. These protectors make them a good option for those who want to maintain a clutter-free appearance in their place.
Tips For Protecting Electrical Systems During Storms
Various measures can be taken, but here are some of the tips to ensure the safety of electrical systems:
- Unplug appliances and electronics during storms.
- Avoid using corded phones during storms.
- Install lightning rods on your roof.
- Ensure your electrical system is grounded correctly.
Safe Electrical System with Surge Protectors
Protecting your electrical system from lightning strikes and power surges is essential for avoiding expensive repairs or replacements. Invest in surge protection, understand lightning strikes, and take proactive measures to protect your electrical system during storms. By following these tips, you can safeguard your home or business from the damaging effects of lightning strikes.
Blog received on Mail by Kritika Kamara
