Do I Need A Surge Protector For My AC?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Air conditioners contain numerous electrical components, including; compressor pump, thermostat, control system, fans and blowers among others. Each of these components can be damaged during a power surge, hence the need to install surge protectors.

How much does an AC surge protector cost?

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Do you need a surge protector for your air conditioner?

Air conditioners contain numerous electrical components, including; compressor pump, thermostat, control system, fans and blowers among others. Each of these components can be damaged during a power surge, hence the need to install surge protectors.

Can you put an air conditioner on a surge protector?

It is not safe to plug an AC unit to a conventional power strip as it can cause electrical fires to break out. Instead, you can use surge protectors . These devices look and function just like a power strip but with added protection against power surges, which can damage your unit.

What appliances need surge protectors?

The most important products to plug into a surge protector are expensive electronic devices with microprocessors. Desktop computers, laptops, televisions, gaming systems, and charging phones should all be plugged into a surge protector, so they aren’t damaged in a storm.

Is 900 joules enough for a surge protector?

A unit with up to 1000 joules of surge protection is adequate for these small electronics. ... A surge protector with 1000 to 2000 joules will provide sufficient protection for power tools and office equipment such as printers, copiers and routers.

Can a power surge damage your air conditioner?

A power surge on your modern AC could be devastating and result in a breakdown of the system . Many times, a spike in electricity could cause hidden problems inside your air conditioner. These are problems that you may not notice for months, such as premature wear and tear on vital internal components.

Can I plug a portable air conditioner into a regular outlet?

If the AC does not have a standard grounded plug, it must require more than 13 amps . If it requires no more than 15 amps, it could be connected to the proposed circuit, but code requires that there be no other outlets on the circuit. If it requires more than 15 amps, it requires a higher capacity circuit.

Can you run a 5000 BTU air conditioner on an extension cord?

Should You Use an Extension Cord in Your Ac? As a rule of thumb, you shouldn’t use an extension cord to run your AC . ... Air conditioners with 5,000 to 6,000 BTUs generally draw between 5 and 7 amps. They are typically plugged into a 15 amp circuit breaker provided in a wall socket.

Why is my air conditioner tripping the surge protector?

A power surge that trips the AC circuit breaker could be caused by a simple electrical issue within the air conditioner . A loose connection, a failed capacitor, or a short in the wiring could be responsible. Those issues can be fixed easily by a professional.

Can I plug an AC into an extension cord?

First and foremost: do not connect your air-conditioner window unit to an extension cord . ... There are heavy-duty extension cords that are specifically designed for major appliances like air-conditioners. These should be shorter cords with lower gauges (12 or 14 gauge) and higher amp ratings.

What should you not plug into a surge protector?

  • Large Kitchen Appliances (Refrigerator, Dishwasher, etc.) These appliances are so high-powered that they’ll easily overload a poor, little power strip. ...
  • Small Kitchen Appliances. ...
  • Hair Styling Tools. ...
  • Extension Cords and Other Power Strips.

Should a TV be plugged into a surge protector?

You don’t need a surge protector for your desk lamp or your standing fan, but you do want a surge protector for expensive devices that have intricate microprocessors, like computers, televisions, stereo systems, and media centers. ... Plug those into a surge protector. It’s better to be safe than sorry .

How many years do surge protectors last?

Yep, that’s right: Surge protectors don’t last forever. Most estimates put the average lifespan of a surge protector at three to five years . And if your home is subject to frequent brownouts or blackouts, you might want to replace your surge protectors as often as every two years.

Is 300 joules enough for a surge protector?

Is 300 joules enough for a surge protector? Look for a protector that is at least rated at 200 to 400 joules . For better protection, look for a rating of 600 joules or more. Response time – Surge protectors don’t kick in immediately; there is a very slight delay as they respond to the power surge.

What is the safest surge protector?

  • Best smart surge protector: Kasa Smart HS300 Plug Power Strip.
  • Best with USB ports: Anker Power Strip Surge Protector.
  • Best heavy-duty: Tripp Lite Isobar 6.
  • Best space-saving: APC Wall Outlet Plug Extender.
  • Best portable: Belkin 3-Outlet USB Surge Protector.
Ahmed Ali
Author
Ahmed Ali
Ahmed Ali is a financial analyst with over 15 years of experience in the finance industry. He has worked for major banks and investment firms, and has a wealth of knowledge on investing, real estate, and tax planning. Ahmed is also an advocate for financial literacy and education.