Power Surge Protection Installation
A stable supply of electricity is essential in today’s world, in which we depend on appliances and electronics for a dominant majority of our activities. However, electricity can be as volatile as it is vital. Power surges, or sudden bursts of electricity, can happen because of a few reasons and the damage can be devastating. Fortunately, a power surge protection installation in Austin can protect you and your property. Continue reading or call Mr. Electric to learn more about power surges and power surge protection.
What is a Power Surge, and What Causes It?
A power surge refers to a sudden and temporary voltage spike in an electrical system. This surge can last for fractions of a second, or a few milliseconds, and the magnitude of the surge can vary depending on the source. Here are some reasons a power surge can happen:
- Lightning Strikes: During a thunderstorm, lightning can strike power lines or utility equipment and travel through the electrical grid into our homes or businesses.
- Power Company Activities: Maintenance work, switching operations, and other activities by the power company can sometimes result in power surges.
- Electrical Grid Issues: When the power is restored after an outage, a surge can sometimes accompany it.
- High-Powered Equipment: Appliances and equipment that require a lot of power to operate, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, elevators, or large machinery, can cause power surges when they switch on or off.
- Faulty Wiring: Poor wiring can cause electrical issues like a short circuit which can lead to spikes in voltage.
The Risks that Come with a Power Surge
The high voltage during a power surge can overload sensitive components, damage wiring, and cause malfunctions or complete failures in electronic devices and appliances. Power surges can damage computers, security systems, audio systems, electrical wiring, medical equipment, and other equipment or devices connected to the electrical system.
What about minor power surges? While small fluctuations within the normal operating range of electrical devices may not cause any noticeable harm, even these minor fluctuations can have a negative effect over time and reduce the lifespan of electronic components.
