RF Surge Arrestor

A: A surge protector designed for a standard AC power outlet requires a functional ground connection in order to work properly. The surge protector diverts excess voltage to the ground wire, preventing it from reaching connected equipment.

A: This is not recommended because the extension cord may not be robust enough to carry the current required by the surge protector safely. In addition, long cable runs increase electrical resistance, which can cause overheating and fire hazards. Instead, choose a surge protector with a long input cord designed to carry the required current safely, such as one of these models.

A: This is not recommended because long cable runs can cause overheating and fire hazards. Instead, choose a surge protector with a long input cord designed to carry the required current safely, such as one of these models.

A: This is not recommended because long cable runs can cause overheating and fire hazards. Increasing the number of outlets also makes overloads more likely. Instead, choose a surge protector with a long input cord designed to carry the required current safely, such as one of these models.

A: Yes. However, a surge protector should not be used unattended outdoors unless it is rated for continuous outdoor use.

A: UPS systems have built-in surge protection, so this is unnecessary and not recommended. It also increases the risk of overloads.

A: Yes. Fuses and circuit breakers protect against current (amperage) overloads, but they do not protect against voltage surges and spikes.

A: No, tripping breakers are usually caused by current (amperage) overloads. Surge protectors protect against voltage surges and spikes.

A: Tripping breakers are usually caused by current (amperage) overloads. That means too much equipment is plugged into the surge protector or the outlet. Unplugging some equipment or replacing it with equipment that requires less power (wattage) may prevent the breaker from tripping. Other possible causes include a compromised breaker in the electrical panel that requires replacement or an appliance that draws too much amperage on startup, such as a heavy-duty power tool. High-amperage devices may require a 20 amp outlet instead of the typical 15 amp outlet. A 20 amp outlet can be combined with a 20 amp surge protector, such as one of these models.

A: This may indicate the surge protector is damaged or faulty. You should unplug the surge protector and replace it. If you still notice a problem, consult an electrician.

A: Yes, but keep in mind that all the equipment plugged into the surge protector will lose power if the GFCI outlet trips.

A: A surge protector should be labeled as a surge protective device or similar on its nameplate. In addition, the manufacturer's documentation will identify it as a surge protector and provide specifications for the level of surge protection provided, including the joule rating and voltage let-through rating.

A: A surge protector is designed to protect against very short-term and high-intensity voltage spikes and surges. A power conditioner is designed to protect against longer-term and lower-intensity voltage sags (brownouts) and swells (overvoltages). The automatic voltage regulation (AVR) feature of line-interactive UPS systems performs the same function as a power conditioner. Power conditioners and UPS systems typically include built-in surge protection in addition to their voltage regulation features.

A: A residual-current device, such as a GFCI outlet, monitors for leakage current to ground and interrupts the circuit when it detects leakage current. Interrupting or breaking the circuit prevents equipment damage and the potential for dangerous electric shocks. Rather than protecting against excessive voltages like a surge protector, it protects against current (amperage) leaking to the wrong place in the circuit due to a wiring fault or other problem.