Surge Protection

Example of panel mounted surge protectorA panel-mounted surge protector can help protect your large appliances from surge damage. A licensed electrician must help you obtain and install this device. Here are the minimum specifications to look for and discuss with your electrician:

UL1449 3rd Edition Listed

The Surge Protection Device (SPD) must be listed for a type 1 or type 2 location (the location of the main electrical service panel). This standard protects against partial, direct, and indirect lightning discharges and is intended to provide surge protection to help achieve safe and reliable equipment performance.

Peak Surge Current Rating

Also referred to as maximum transient current or maximum surge. Look for an SPD with a rating of 50,000 amperes or higher per phase.

Voltage Protection Rating (VPR)

When tested with a surge of 6 kilovolts at 3 kilovolt-amps the VPR should be 800 volts or less. The VPR rating shows how much of a 6,000-volt surge is allowed to pass the SPD protection.

Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) Protection

MOVs redirect the electrical current in the event of a power surge. If the unit has larger and multiple MOVs, it will provide more durable and longer-lasting surge protection.

Electrical Noise Protection

For electromagnetic interference (EMI)  and for radio-frequency interference (RFI).

Cost

Panel mounted surge protection requires installation by a qualified electrician. Costs for panel mounted surge protection can vary anywhere from $300 to $700 for materials and labor. Please consult an electrician for more information.

Phone & Cable TV Protection

To protect a TV, VCR, telephone, fax, or computer, buy a surge suppressor with TV cable connectors and/or phone jacks.