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Surge Protector Versus AVR

Electrical protective devices such as surge protectors and automatic voltage regulators (AVR) are widely used in residential and commercial areas across the North Shore of Sydney.

However, some people fail to recognise their differences in protecting electronic appliances and electrical systems.

Surge protector and automatic voltage regulator (AVR) are devices used to maintain the standard flow of current to your electrical appliances. However, they do not work precisely the same way as they perceived to be.

For further understanding, here are some ideas about surge protectors and AVRs.

How Do These Devices Provide Protection?

Both devices serve the same purpose of protecting your electrical components. But they somehow vary in terms of how they work to deliver such protection.

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors provide a line of defence against transient overvoltage. Transient overvoltage or surges occur due to lightning strikes, electronic switching or other disturbances within your electrical system.

Regardless of the source, the sudden rise of voltage can damage the components of your electronic devices and put your entire electrical structure at risk.

On the other hand, a surge protector uses a semiconductor called metal oxide varistors (MOV) and gas discharge tube to reduce high spikes of voltage. It works by diverting excess power or current produce by a surge into a grounding line. 

Thus, preventing destructive transients from flowing through your electronic appliances while allowing a safe level of electricity to continue along its path.

Furthermore, surge protectors do not only protect your electronic devices but also provide to your entire electrical system. Besides, they can typically be on your main service entrance, branch panel or even directly on your standard outlet, which will give you a more reliable and safe electricity flow.

Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)

An automatic voltage regulator (AVR) is a device used to maintain the normal flow of output voltage to any electronic devices linked to it. It can capture current fluctuations, allowing only the standard level of energy to continue on its path.

Fluctuations in electricity are the sudden rise and fall of the input current, which can be brought by factors such as inadequate power regulations and electrical surges caused by lightning.

An AVR uses a servomechanism to detect the accurate voltage when fluctuations or surges happen, thus, maintaining the preferred level of output power to protect your electronic devices.

Most of our electronic appliances are sensitive to fluctuations and surges. Therefore, using an AVR will help you secure your devices not only from the damaging effects of transient waves but also from the destruction brought by the frequent rise and fall of electrical current.

Which Should You Use?

Surge protectors protect your appliances and electrical system against transient overvoltage. Meanwhile, automatic voltage regulators (AVR) prevent the damage of your electronic devices against frequent electricity fluctuation or the sudden rise and fall of voltage.

Aside from that, AVRs can be found on your electronics with a high-level of fluctuation sensitivity such as computers, flat-screen TVs, audio/video equipment and modern refrigerators. On the other hand, surge protectors can be found and installed alongside your service entrance, distribution panels or linked directly to your appliances.

Both devices perform a significant function of preventing damages to your electronics. They can be individually or use simultaneously to achieve ultimate protection for all your devices and the entire electrical system. However, it is best to consult a certified electrician if you have additional concerns regarding the use of AVRs and surge protectors.

Conclusion

In essence, surge protectors and automatic voltage regulators allow your valuable appliances and electrical components be safe and secured from surges or fluctuations. They may differ in certain areas and features, but with proper usage and installation, they can give sufficient protection to your entire electrical system.

Whether you are thinking of having an automatic voltage regulator or installing a surge protector, Sydney North Shore Electrician is here to serve you. Our team of experts and Level 2 electricians will deliver you a fast and reliable service, guaranteed with 100% satisfaction.

Sydney North Shore Electrician is a one-stop-shop when it comes to electrical-related services. From surge protector installation to your home’s wiring upgrades, our electricians will always be available to help you.

We are at your reach 24/7. Team up with our master electricians today and call us at (02) 8378 2828.

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