What To Know
- It does this by monitoring the electrical current in the circuit and interrupting the flow of electricity if it detects a surge.
- The clamping voltage of a surge protector is the maximum voltage that it will allow to pass through to the connected equipment.
- If you live in an area that is prone to power surges, then you should consider getting a circuit breaker surge protector.
A circuit breaker surge protector is a device that protects electrical circuits from damage caused by power surges. It does this by monitoring the electrical current in the circuit and interrupting the flow of electricity if it detects a surge. This prevents the surge from reaching the sensitive electronic equipment connected to the circuit.
How Does a Circuit Breaker Surge Protector Work?
Circuit breaker surge protectors work by using a combination of metal oxide varistors (MOVs) and thermal fuses. MOVs are semiconductor devices that conduct electricity in one direction only. When a surge occurs, the MOVs allow the excess voltage to flow to ground, protecting the connected equipment. Thermal fuses are also used to protect the surge protector from damage. If the surge is too large, the thermal fuse will blow, interrupting the flow of electricity and preventing the surge protector from overheating.
Types of Circuit Breaker Surge Protectors
There are two main types of circuit breaker surge protectors:
- Whole-house surge protectors are installed at the electrical panel and protect the entire home from surges.
- Point-of-use surge protectors are plugged into an outlet and protect the equipment connected to that outlet.
Benefits of Using a Circuit Breaker Surge Protector
There are many benefits to using a circuit breaker surge protector, including:
- Protection from power surges: Circuit breaker surge protectors can protect your valuable electronic equipment from damage caused by power surges.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your equipment is protected from surges can give you peace of mind.
- Insurance: Some insurance companies offer discounts on homeowners insurance for homes that are protected by surge protectors.
How to Choose a Circuit Breaker Surge Protector
When choosing a circuit breaker surge protector, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Joule rating: The joule rating of a surge protector measures its ability to absorb energy. The higher the joule rating, the more protection the surge protector will provide.
- Clamping voltage: The clamping voltage of a surge protector is the maximum voltage that it will allow to pass through to the connected equipment. The lower the clamping voltage, the better protection the surge protector will provide.
- Number of outlets: The number of outlets on a surge protector determines how many devices you can connect to it.
- Warranty: The warranty on a surge protector protects you from defects in materials and workmanship.
Installation of a Circuit Breaker Surge Protector
Installing a whole-house surge protector requires a qualified electrician. However, point-of-use surge protectors are easy to install yourself. Simply plug the surge protector into an outlet and connect your devices to the surge protector.
Maintenance of a Circuit Breaker Surge Protector
Circuit breaker surge protectors require very little maintenance. However, it is important to inspect them regularly for damage. If you notice any damage, such as cracks or broken wires, replace the surge protector immediately.
When to Replace a Circuit Breaker Surge Protector
Circuit breaker surge protectors should be replaced every few years, or more often if they have been subjected to a large surge. You should also replace a surge protector if it has been damaged.
Common Questions and Answers
1. What is the difference between a circuit breaker and a surge protector?
A circuit breaker is a device that protects electrical circuits from overcurrent. A surge protector is a device that protects electrical circuits from power surges.
2. Do I need a circuit breaker surge protector?
If you live in an area that is prone to power surges, then you should consider getting a circuit breaker surge protector.
3. How long do circuit breaker surge protectors last?
Circuit breaker surge protectors typically last for 5-10 years.
4. How do I know if my circuit breaker surge protector is working?
Most circuit breaker surge protectors have a light that indicates whether or not they are working. If the light is not on, then the surge protector is not working and should be replaced.
5. What should I do if my circuit breaker surge protector trips?
If your circuit breaker surge protector trips, then it has detected a surge. You should unplug the surge protector and inspect it for damage. If you find any damage, then you should replace the surge protector.
