Power Surge Safety

 

What is a power surge?

Surges are sudden rises of voltage in electrical circuits lasting a few microseconds.  During a power surge, the voltage exceeds the peak voltage of 169 volts.

An increase in voltage above an appliance’s normal operating voltage can cause an arc of electrical current which leads to the damage of electronic circuit boards and other electrical components.

What are some common causes of power surges & where do they come from?

Power surges can be caused by animal interference, downed power lines, high winds, nearby lightning strikes, traffic accidents involving utility poles, and many other types of disturbances.  Power surges can enter a home through several pathways. In the case of lightning, it can take the path of the cable TV or satellite dish cable, through the incoming telephone lines, or through the incoming electrical service line.

How Can I Protect My Property?

Surges pose a greater threat to electronic equipment than most people realize. In fact, while large surges cause catastrophic damage, small surges may only appear as a flicker of the lights or nothing at all. But for today’s microchip driven electronics, the result can be disastrous.

Point-Of-Use Surge Protection Devices (SPDs), combined with a good grounding system, should protect your electronic and electrical appliances from most electrical surges. An SPD diverts the surge to the ground for protection.

If you’re looking for a professional Manhattan Beach and South Bay electrical contractor in the Los Angeles area, call Penna Electric today!  Let one of our licensed, insured electricians make your environment safe and orderly.