Electricity is powerful, and electrical systems are designed to contain it. However, as a result of imperfect systems, malfunctions do occur which can cause a great amount of damage. Electrical system safety precautions have been put in place to prevent excessive damage to the system, property, or persons near it. Learn more about how to prevent power surge damage.
What is a Power Surge?
A power surge is basically a spike in voltage. Power surge damage can lead to dangerous situations. Your electrical system is meant to regulate the amount of voltage that is sent through your system at any given time. If the voltage becomes too great for the electrical system to handle, then power outages, electrical fires, and electrical shock can result.
Power surges can be caused by a number of faults. These faults include improper wiring, weathered or worn wiring, and even power lines themselves. Overloaded circuits can also lead to power surges. In order to prevent power surges from causing too much damage, circuit breakers stop the electrical current. They detect electrical anomalies in the system and cut the circuit to prevent electrical disasters. If you realize your circuit breakers are becoming engaged too often, it could be related to frequent power surges or power surge damage.
Unfortunately, the circuit breaker can only do so much to protect your home from power surges. Experts suggest having additional surge protectors. A surge protector is similar to an extension cord but with surge protection mechanisms within them. Surge protectors will shut off if they detect any electrical anomalies.