Although you might take the availability of electricity for granted, it’s important to use energy safely. Even if you already have a whole-house surge protector, you might also need voltage spike protection. Understanding the difference between these types of protection will help you use energy wisely and safely in your home, workshop, and garage.
What Is a Surge Protector?
Whether you use a power strip with surge protection or a whole-house surge protector, the technology is essentially the same. The system absorbs sudden surges of electricity that result from lightning, power disruptions, or unexpected fluctuations in the municipal power grid. MOVs (metal oxide varistors) absorb the extra energy and channel the excessive voltage away from lighting fixtures and electrical outlets.
What Is a Voltage Spike Protector?
Even when an event, such as a lightning storm, doesn’t cause sudden spikes in voltage, your electrical system can still develop surges. This is where voltage spike protection comes into play. Spike protection regulates the flow of energy to ensure it remains consistent. A system of circuits and transformers regulates the flow of electricity to keep small surges from damaging lighting fixtures, appliances, and other electronics.
Here’s Why You Need Both
You’ll use a surge protector to prevent electrical arcs that could cause injuries to anyone near the surge of energy. Even if you’re not touching the outlet or appliance, a surge could cause electrocution or a fire. Voltage spike protection prevents smaller surges that can damage electrical devices. It also protects your wiring against shorts and other damage that might lead to house fires. Use both to protect your property and your family.
Continental Power Corporation can help you learn more about how to use energy safely when you visit their website at Continentalpowercorp.com.
