It is a common event to experience a power surge in your home at some point and the issue is that power surges can result in damage to electrical equipment and other problems.  The circuit breaker is triggered to shut down the electrical currents in that area when a surge occurs.   You can prevent hazards and damage if you are more equipped to recognize power surges. In an effort to help you avoid the severe outcomes of a power surge, we at Simon Electric would like to share the fundamentals of a power surge.

Power Surge Meaning & How it is Created

A power surge occurs is when there is an unexpected interruption to the flow of electricity through the grid. A device is supposed to draw electricity but sometimes it puts it back into the system instead.  Although some homes are equipped with 240 volts to accommodate certain appliances, the standard voltage in the U.S. is 120 volts.  A power surge can be produced when these devices are plugged into an outlet without proper protection, leading to the device sustaining damage and other potential hazards. Where the voltage varies, in less than a thousandth of a second, these quick spikes of electrical currents can be produced.  A rather complex concept, the voltage and electric currents in the assortment of electrical devices manufactured with a wide spectrum of quality can create more variables on the response to the voltage the electrical current endures.

Voltage Surge Causes

Below are the most common sources of how contributing factors causes power surges.

1) A power surge can be produced form wildlife tampering with electrical equipment, like transformers for examples, which frequently electrocutes them in the process.

2) After a power outage is restored, a power surge can stem from the flow of electricity flooding your appliances all at once.  It is recommended that you unplug all the devices and appliances should you experience a blackout and plug them back in once the power is restored.

3) A power surge can be produced from a lightning strike touching down at the right point.  To help you avoid this random act of nature, be sure to install lightning rods.

4) When high powered electrical devices are switched on or if a high-energy component is activated, such as a motor, a surge can take place.  Other electrical outlets throughout the home can be activated by this as well; air conditioner, space heaters, or refrigerators are common examples.  

5)  A damaged circuit breaker, which is designed to protect the home from surges, can allow them to develop.

6) Poor installed electrical wiring.  

7) Tree limbs that grow and sway or break off into the power line can cause power surges. 

Signs of a Power Surge

In the event you notice the circuit breaker or safety switch frequent tripping, or devices suddenly resetting or losing power, or failing electronics, these can be telltale signs of excessive power surges occurring. 

Residential, Commercial & Marine Electrical in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County Florida

With the assistance of a certified electricians, you can have the needed repairs or upgrades for your electrical system to better handle power surges.  Without the proper applications, power surges can lead to damage and electrical fires that can impact the home and the safety of those inside. Minimize damage with quality safety switches, surge protectors, unplugging devices when not in use, and utilizing service provider protection.   If you need assistance combating surges in your home or need repairs after the fact, call Simon Electric today and let our experts take care of the rest.