Many homes have surge protectors, yet residents may not be sure what they actually do. It is a device designed to protect electronics and other appliances. Without a surge protector, many appliances will suffer damage that may be permanent by melting plastic or frying circuits. Learn more from Tim Kyle Electric, residential electrician for Baltimore County MD.
How Do Surge Protectors Work?
Also referred to as transient voltage, a power surge occurs when electrical voltage increases over the appropriate limit. This limit is 120 volts in the United States. If the voltage gets higher than that, anything plugged in may be permanently damaged. For the safety of yourself, your home, and your electronics, surge protectors are recommended.
Most homes have at least one surge protector. So, how does this device work? It operates by allowing a current of electricity to flow through it and into the plugged-in devices. A surge protector allows multiple wires to be plugged in at the same time. The power strip is there to protect all the electrical components connected to the outlet from surges. Should the electric voltage go over a certain point, it is diverted towards the grounding wire of the outlet. The grounding wires go alongside the neutral and hot wires in the unit. These wires allow the current of electricity to flow continuously even if the system suffers a breakdown.
Residential Electrician Baltimore County MD
If you are concerned with the electrical voltage in your home, call Tim Kyle Electric. Our residential electrical services will take all of the stress out of powering your home. Let our experts work with you on any project and we guarantee that you’ll be satisfied with the process from start to finish! Your family’s safety is our priority.