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Storms, lightning strikes, accidents, or simply switching the
on/off button on an appliance can cause an electricity spike or
surge. This occurs when too much energy is sent through to the appliance,
and it is unable to cope. As a result, the appliance may be damaged,
destroyed or, worse still, cause a fire. Surge protectors safeguard
appliances and wiring from such surges. Talk to your local electrical
store or your licensed electrical contractor about the best way
to protect your appliances.
What is a surge or spike?
Surges or spikes can happen when there is a sudden increase in
voltage in the electricity network. Storms, lightning strikes, accidents
or simply switching an appliance on or off can cause an electricity
spike or surge. This occurs when too much energy is sent through
to the appliance, and it is unable to cope. As a result the appliance
may be damaged, destroyed or, worse still, cause a fire.
Lightning has the greatest potential to cause damage to your appliances
and the degree of damage increases with the closeness and the intensity
of the strike.
Surges are generally beyond the control of Ergon Energy.
What appliances can be affected?
Surges and spikes can affect any electrical appliance but electronic, micro-processor or computer type
equipment like computers, printers, fax machines, microwave ovens,
stereos, televisions, videos, medical equipment, communication equipment
and the like are most at risk.
You should also protect your telephone line to safe guard your
computer and fax machines as these can also be another source of
power surges from such things as lightning.
How can I protect my appliances?
Surge protectors safeguard appliances and wiring from surges and
spikes. Talk to your electrical store or licensed electrical contractor
about the best way to protect your appliances.
There are three different options for surge protection.
The easiest surge protector to install is a portable one. Like
a powerboard, portable surge protectors plug into a power point
and provide protection for those appliances plugged into them. You
should also consider purchasing one that has telephone protection
included. Some surge protectors can only be used once and may need
replacing after a surge has occurred.
Power point surge protectors are installed by a licensed electrical
contractor and replace a regular power point to provide specific
protection for key areas in your home - for your home computer,
entertainment equipment or phone/fax machine.
A surge protector can be installed at your main switchboard by
a licensed electrical contractor. Newer types are fitted with replaceable
modules that allow for quick replacement without the need for disconnecting
the power. These modules show an indicator when overload has occurred
and a new module should be installed. If the spent modules are not
replaced, the appliances will still operate but they will not be
protected from damage if another surge should occur.
Is there anything else I can do?
If there is storm activity in your area and you are at home, turn
off and unplug sensitive electronic equipment if you can. Also remember
to disconnect the TV aerial.
Is there a difference between a surge protector and a safety
switch?
Surge protectors are different to safety switches. Surge protectors
help protect sensitive electronic equipment and safety switches
help protect people.
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