Electricity is all around us. We use it to power our homes, run our appliances, and light our streets. It’s hard to imagine life without it. So, it can be a real inconvenience when the power goes out. But power surges are even more problematic. Not only do they interrupt our power supply, but they can also damage our electrical appliances. In this article, we’ll look at what causes power surges and how to protect your home from them.
What is a Power Surge?
A power surge, also known as a voltage spike, is a sudden increase in the voltage of an electrical power supply. Surges can last for a fraction of a second, or they can last for several minutes or even hours. The voltage increase can be either small or large, but even a small surge has the potential to damage electrical equipment.
Why Power Surges Happen
Power surges happen for a variety of reasons. The following are some of the most common causes:
1. Lightning Strikes
As we know, lightning is a natural occurrence that is impossible to control. When a lightning bolt hits power lines or other electrical equipment, it can cause a surge of electricity. This surge can then travel through the electrical system and cause damage to appliances and other electronics in your home. It is very important to have surge protection in place to help protect your belongings from this type of damage.
2. Power Outages
Another common cause of power surges is when the power goes out. When the power comes back on, it can come back with a surge. That is especially common during summer thunderstorms. That is why it is important to have a surge protector for your electronics. A power outage can cause a voltage spike when the power returns. That can damage your electronics and cause them to malfunction. Whenever possible, unplug your electronics during a power outage to prevent this from happening.
3. Overloaded Circuits
Overloaded circuits can also cause power surges. That happens when too many devices are plugged into one circuit, causing it to draw too much power. Overloaded circuits are a common cause of power surges. Ensure that your circuits are not overloaded by unplugging devices that you are not using.
4. Poor Wiring
Power surges can be caused by old or faulty wiring in your homes. Wiring problems are one of the most common reasons for power surges. If your wiring is old, it can become brittle and break easily. That can cause a power surge. If your wiring is in poor condition, it can cause a power surge. Poorly insulated wires can also cause power surges. Insulation breaks down can cause the wires to overheat and become a fire hazard.
5. Utility Company Problems
Many people aren’t aware that their local utility company can be the source of power surges. When the utility firm must make rapid modifications in its electricity output, it may send a surge of electrical energy through your home’s wiring. So, if you experience a power surge, it’s always a good idea to contact your local utility company to find out if they are experiencing any problems.
Conclusion
Power surges can happen for various reasons, but they can all potentially damage your electrical appliances. A power surge can damage your electronics and other delicate belongings in your home, so it’s important to have a surge protector. Surge protectors help safely handle the extra voltage created during a power surge.
