Q: How can I protect my electronics from power surges?
A: Power surges are a real threat to sensitive electronic devices. Lightning strikes can, of course, cause serious, immediate damage, but even repeated low-level surges will shorten the life of your equipment over time. While localized surge protectors can be used to protect individual devices, the most effective approach is the installation of a whole-house surge arrester.
Q: What is an arc fault?
A: An arc fault is an accidental electrical discharge, generally caused by stripped or damaged electrical wiring. Improperly installed switches and outlets can also produce arc faults. This arcing current can start a fire, but it’s preventable. Electric arc fault circuit interrupters can be installed to interrupt the current flow if arcing should occur, eliminating the chance of fire.
Q: What can I do about electrical outages?
A: Power outages can stem from a variety of causes. During peak periods of electricity usage, power-generating facilities may be unable to keep up with demand. This can cause a temporary "black out” - which is a complete interruption of service - or a "brown out,” which is a decrease in the level of current being transmitted. Localized interruptions can be caused by fallen power lines or local transmitter damage. You can protect yourself from all of these interruptions by installing a dependable backup generator at your home or place of business.
Q: How come birds and squirrels can hang out on power lines without being electrocuted?
A: When our feathered and furry friends perch and walk across electrical lines, they only come into contact with a single line, which doesn’t allow the current to complete a circuit. If they were to simultaneously contact two lines, or a single line and the ground, they would serve as a bridge between differing voltage potentials, and electrocution would be the result.
