How to protect yourself from a power surge. What is a power surge and everything about protection against it: methods and protection devices. Why power surges occur in the power grid

How easy it is to choose a high-quality PH for an apartment and a private house, which is better than a PH or a stabilizer, a diagram for connecting a PH to a 220v network, installing a PH in a shield.

It is believed that all modern household appliances are protected automatically. Already built into expensive plasma panels control relay or stabilizer, but most often a high potential difference “breaks through” the built-in stabilizers and the equipment burns out.

TEST:

4 questions about how you can protect your equipment from surges

How often do you experience fluctuations?

a) every few days

b) very rarely.

Do the light bulbs in the apartment flicker (change brightness)?

a) yes, all the time

What is the average load power of all your household appliances?

a) less than 4 kW;

b) more than 4 kW.

How often does it blow out traffic jams?

a) no. Knocks out when we turn on several powerful devices;

b) yes, sometimes you even have to change plugs.

Test results:

b, b, b, b - a relay will suit you. The pH will protect your equipment from sudden surges. Also, you need to install a more powerful plug. Your plugs are rated for less total current than your electrical appliances expect;

a, a, a, a - a stabilizer will suit you. Your power consumption is not high, an inexpensive device will “calm down” the voltage in the network;

a, a, a, b - ideally, a pH and a stabilizer will suit you, this will protect the apartment / house from sudden surges and equalize the voltage to a constant norm.

5 main causes of voltage drops in the 220v network

The mains voltage is RMS, i.e. really effective, the value of the potential difference in the electrical network of alternating current, available to consumers. Basic parameters of the AC network - potential difference And frequency, in Russia standard: frequency 50 Hz and 230 V.

Due to imperfections, the power supply system is not always able to ensure the stability of 220 volts. With a sharp, short-term surge, electrical appliances are ready to fail, despite the built-in fuses and voltage relays built into the device circuit.

The potential difference in the network can change noticeably, not only because of problems outside the apartment or house. Deviations from 220 Volts occur due to the increased load on the network from the included devices.

The reason for the drops is outdated elements of power supply systems. Modern systems energy consumption are excessive load for wiring, it was not designed for such power at the time when it was designed.

The reasons for the fluctuations are as follows:

Several electrical appliances are turned on (and then turned off) at the same time;
The neutral conductor is broken;
Lightning strike during a thunderstorm;
Damage to wires on power lines;
Incorrect wiring in the electrical panel.

Horse racing does not depend on us, so you will need to protect your home network from this problem in advance.

The most reasonable solution to the problems of drops is to completely reconstruct the power supply system. If you live in a private house, then completely replacing the wiring is real and quite affordable, but, in reality, this will only reduce the likelihood of jumps; new wiring does not guarantee the absence of interruptions in power lines.

2 ways to protect against surges

To date, there are the following 3 types of devices that can save your equipment from sudden surges:

RKN (Voltage Control Relay);
Voltage regulator;

1 main reason that the UPS is unable to handle the surge.

Uninterruptible power supply and stabilizer- Different things. Many people confuse these two types of devices, this is due to an illiterate description. UPS in stores and uninformed sales assistants.

Let's figure out why you need a "bespereboynik". UPS used with a computer. Its main task is to prevent sudden shutdowns, to keep the charge in the batteries for some time.

What happens if there is a big drop? If UPS contains a stabilizer (which is extremely rare), then it will preserve the integrity of the computer, if it does not contain it, it will fail. All other household appliances not connected to the UPS will be at risk.

2 types of relays for the protection of household appliances and equipment. Uzip or relay.

Voltage control relay(RKN) is a simple device that turns off the circuit when the potential difference deviates from the norm. The relay for the protection of household appliances and equipment turns on the circuit again when the potential difference becomes normal.

RKN does not change the voltage, does not stabilize it, the relay reads the indicators and acts according to the network.

Why do I need a voltage relay (PH) for a 220v home network

Relay are of two types:

Relay general type. It is installed in the shield, RN protects the entire house (or apartment) from surges. RKN has sensitivity, does not respond to jumps within a microvolt, turns off the current supply when the potential reaches a critical value. The critical value depends on specific model RKN. Adjustment of such devices is very easy: for example, a relay RN-113 can be configured without special knowledge in 10 minutes; setting Barrier takes even less.
RKN built-in. Plugs into a socket and resembles an extension cord with sockets for 220 volts. It includes individual electrical appliances and RN capable of protecting them from overvoltage. The design of the relay is very simple - the plate, which bends when the voltage rises, presses the toggle switch. That is why, when triggered, a “click” is noticeably heard.

1 advice on how to choose the right pH for an apartment and a private house

If you decide to purchase a control relay, remember that you should carefully study its power (more than the sum of the powers of all included electrical appliances).

Relay - handy device, but not quite suitable in areas where the network is unstable. In this case, the relay will turn on and off very often, few people will like the constantly flickering light. The relay will keep your household appliances but at the cost of comfort.

Protection against voltage surges in the network 220V

3 main differences between relays.

All single-phase relays (i.e. relay, operating in a single-phase network, a standard two-pin network with a desirable 220 V) differ from each other in the following parameters:

maximum switched load current (total current). This is a relay with indicators 16A, 25A, 32A, 40A, 60A, 63A. Relays with high load currents are installed in production.
the presence of a voltage indicator in the network;
controls (knobs that make it possible to adjust the interval of allowable);

How to avoid connection problems, 3 relay connection errors

Consider the three most common mistakes that happen when the connection is wrong. voltage relay:

Zero connection with a protective conductor coming after the differential machine. This is most often done "out of habit", in order to zero out.
Open phase device connections. Also a common mistake: the phase is connected to a differential machine, and zero passes by. Thus, the zero of a household outlet is not connected to a differential machine, but to a zero bus.
Misalignment error. When connecting one pole, the terminals are reversed, so the supply phase is connected to the upper terminal, and the outgoing phase to the lower terminal, while the supply zero is connected from the zero bus to the lower terminal, and the load phase to the upper.

4 types of voltage stabilizers

Unlike a relay that de-energizes the network until the voltage returns to normal, the stabilizer works in the other direction - it normalizes the network. They are connected to the mains and no matter what the voltage in the incoming network, the output gives the parameters of 220 volts. If fluctuations occur frequently, this unit will great solution, because, unlike a relay, it does not turn off the current. Having a stabilizer, you guarantee yourself not only the safety of household appliances, but also its continuous operation.

Relay. Cheap devices with low power.
Servo driven. It is also called electromechanical. Its power is higher than that of relay ones, while the price is also higher.
Electronic. Their design includes semiconductor parts - thyristors and triacs. They are very durable, powerful and accurate. They are not cheap, but they are guaranteed to protect your equipment from surges and provide a stable network.
Electronic double conversion. The most expensive and most reliable stabilizers. Their principle of operation is based on stabilization and complete equalization of the potential difference. These stabilizers equalize the incoming network twice. They are perfect in homes with a very unstable network, where the voltage at the outlet literally “jumps”.

TOP 2: THE MOST POPULAR RELAY AND STABILIZER

Let's conduct a complete review of the main characteristics of the RN-113 relay:

4 schemes for connecting RN-113 to a 220v network

RN-113 installed in the network after a circuit breaker or plug.

The lower limit is the minimum voltage at which RN turns on (if the potential difference is higher than the lower one) and turns off (if it is lower than the lower one)

Upper limit - maximum voltage, above which RN turns off the network.

The lower and upper limits of the barrier are set using the control knobs.

4 detailed voltage control circuits for 220v on a DIN rail

If the voltage rises above the upper pH, it will work within 0.02 seconds - much faster than if the potential difference falls below the lower one - 0.12 seconds. This is logical - after all, a decrease is not as dangerous as an increase.

Scheme of a detailed connection of the LV to the 220v network

2 schemes for installing a launch vehicle in a shield

detailed wiring diagram with contactor

detailed connection diagram of the RN - mounting in the shield

Connection rules are regulated by SNiP 3.05.06-85 " Electrical devices"and SNiP RD 34.20.179" Typical instruction for compensation of capacitive earth fault current in electrical networks».

Let's review the main characteristics of the SVEN AVR-2000 LCD stabilizer:

As you can see, this popular stabilizer- a device that normalizes the output potential difference and automatic RN. At a voltage above 280 Volts (according to GOST, the maximum allowable 240 V), the stabilizer will turn off the network within 0.01 seconds. At a load current above 15 Amperes (power about 3.5 kilowatts), the fuse will trip and the device will turn off. If the network is less than 100 volts, the device will not work at all. The device helps to adjust the barrier thanks to 2 control knobs.

Stabilizer connection diagram

The results of testing this model of stabilizers can be reduced to the following graph:

This graph clearly shows that in the range from 170 volts to 280 volts, the regulator maintains 100% power. If the voltage is critically low (100 Volts), the stabilizer outputs 50% of the power (which is absolutely harmless for all electrical appliances).

STILL IMPORTANT TO KNOW: 3 advantages and disadvantages of a voltage relay and stabilizer

*Advantages*	*Flaws*
RN
Small dimensions, mounted on a DIN rail	Does not equalize potential differences
Low cost	Multiple devices required for complete protection
Faster response in the event of a sudden surge
Stabilizer
Guarantees stable 220 volts, ideal for all electrical appliances. In case of excessive decrease or increase, the stabilizer turns off the network.	Large in size and very hot during operation, so the stabilizer will need a separate place. Very sensitive to moisture. The transformer inside actively attracts dust.
Equipment connected to the stabilizer remains operational. Even audio and video equipment that is sensitive to drops continues to work stably.	High price.
All bulbs stop flickering, due to which their service life is noticeably extended.	Sensitive to interference. If interference in the network is a normal and constant phenomenon, the stabilizer will eventually begin to fail and turn off the network more and more often.

2 main arguments for and against. What is better - pH or stabilizer.

From our comparative characteristics it is clear that dignity RN- the lack of a stabilizer. If your house rarely experiences drops, the network is relatively stable, but there are sharp and very high surges, you will be more suitable. RN, its response speed is much higher and it will turn off the apartment in time.

If your network is an unstable network, the potential difference is constantly low, after which it rises to normal in several jumps and fluctuates around 200-220 Volts, you need a stabilizer, it will even out the network, and all devices will work more stable.

Here are real life examples:

Alexander, 32 years old, Omsk

“A week ago there was a breakdown in the house. Smoke came from the TV in the back and from the outlet. The TV went down right away. The neighbor's affairs were even "more fun": the refrigerator, plasma, two light bulbs and a washing machine burned down. One can only guess what the voltage was, judging by the burnt out bulbs, then 300 volts. Something burned down in each apartment. Consulted with an electrician. It was decided to put the RN, it was necessary to do it earlier "

Svetlana, 54 years old, Moscow region

“We have been living in the country for the second year. The light is constantly blinking, it's impossible to get used to it, it's terribly annoying. We went to the administration, to the district service - it's all the same to everyone. Country house? Rejoice that there is light. The husband put the pH, but there is not enough tolu from him, he turns off the light somewhere 10 times a day. The stabilizer solved the problem, now the light does not blink "

We conclude: the stabilizer together with the PH - 2 in 1 is able to completely protect the apartment or house. The relay will provide a quick shutdown in the event of an extremely sharp jump, and the stabilizer will equalize the potential difference to normal 220 Volts.

ANSWERS TO 5 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The light in the apartment is constantly blinking, what should I do?

The constant flickering of the lights indicates "jumps" in the network. This is extremely harmful to electrical appliances containing semiconductors, such as televisions, computers, audio-video equipment. This is corrected by installing a stabilizer.

Installed RN. Now several times a day turns off the light. What to do?

Every time the relay de-energizes the apartment, this means that the voltage has gone beyond the permissible range: either it has fallen too much or has risen. If this happens to you all the time, then you have a very unstable network. You need a stabilizer.

How to calculate the power of the stabilizer that will suit me?

Take all household appliances that you have and calculate their total power. Remember, the refrigerator is always working, the light bulbs in the rooms and the TV: you need to take everything into account.

When the relay and stabilizer are turned on together, what should be connected to what?

On the incoming line, you must first put the pH, then the stabilizer. RN passes any voltage that falls into the allowable range, and the stabilizer will bring it back to normal.

Is the stabilizer mounted on a din rail?

No, these are oversized devices. They are not DIN rail mounted. They are sensitive to moisture and dust, they are installed only where it will be dry and clean.

The service life of electronics and household appliances is determined not only by the brand of the manufacturer, but also by the quality of the power supply in the network. Any blackouts and power surges in the network can cause damage to equipment.

Increase or decrease in voltage in the network, accidents, sudden surges, breakage of power lines - all this not only reduces the service life home appliances, but it can also completely disable electronics and equipment that is in standby mode.

Often, jumps occur simultaneously with a short circuit, and this can lead not only to disastrous consequences for property, but also become a threat to life, in this regard, it is very important to protect yourself from such problems.

Why power surges occur

There are several reasons due to which surges occur in networks. A change in its value in the network happens due to the fact that household appliances, when turned off or on, affect the network and introduce an imbalance into it.

When at the same time, for example, five thousand people turn off household appliances, a jump will definitely take place in the network, but household appliances will not feel this and will continue to work without consequences.

However, if a large-scale shutdown of energy-intensive equipment occurs at a large plant (for example, an emergency shutdown during a shift or machines at the end of a shift), then in this case there will be a noticeable power surge , which may cause damage to a large number of consumer electronics.

Breaks in power lines, lightning discharges near power lines - can also cause overvoltage (in the documentation for all electrical appliances there are recommendations about turning off household electrical appliances during a prolonged absence, thunderstorm).

What causes power surges

The acuteness of the issue of protecting household appliances from low-quality electricity in the network is increasing due to the high cost of many electrical appliances.

Power surges considered a significant threat to household appliances and electronics. In low-quality electrical networks, the voltage can rise to 250 V and fall below 180 V, while the standards provide for a value of 220 V with fluctuations of +/-10%.

Of course, most manufacturers of household appliances are trying to protect appliances from sudden surges and all kinds of fluctuations in the network, providing protection in the design of the equipment. In particular, a number of washing machines, when the voltage drops to 180 V, just stop working.

But this protection may not be enough.

The most common cause of failure of consumer electronics is considered to be increased voltage, in excess of that provided for the device, due to uneven consumption of electricity. Long-term operation at overvoltage reduces the life span of devices, and a serious increase in its level leads to insulation breakdown and equipment failure.

How to protect equipment from power surges

Today there are several ways to reduce the consequences of changes in the voltage value in the network:

- voltage relay for household appliances different power. During a power surge, these devices disconnect the electronics from the network, and when the voltage stabilizes, they are connected automatically after a while. Through such relays it is possible to connect washing machines, refrigerators, televisions and any similar equipment.

- Surge Protectors to protect instruments from vibrations and voltage fluctuations. This device is connected between the electrical network (source) and the load, it controls the voltage going to the consumers. The stabilizers have a control function, when the voltage value goes beyond the range controlled by the stabilizer, for example, above 260 V or below 150 V, the stabilizer is blocked and turns off the consumer from the network. After the voltage returns to acceptable values, the stabilizer turns on again.

Electricity is used in residential buildings and apartments for the operation of a variety of household appliances. In homes that are not connected to a public water supply, electricity runs pumps that supply water to the house.

The suppliers of this natural resource make sure that the power supply is regular, stable, and meets the standard voltage indicators. But from time to time situations arise when network voltage fluctuates.

Such a failure leads to a breakdown of electrical appliances and even to the danger of a fire in the house. What are feed drops electrical energy?

This is a sharp increase (possibly also a decrease) in the magnitude of the voltage. Various reasons may cause power surge, they can be objective or subjective.

It is important for consumers to know what the voltage should be, what is the danger of a sharp change in it in the network, and what kind surge protection how to prolong the life of electrical appliances.

You also need to know where to complain if voltage drops occur regularly in the network of a private house or apartment.

The main groups of reasons why the voltage indicator deviates from the norm are emergency, natural, man-made. Most often, the situation does not depend on the person, but the task of specialists is to correct it as quickly as possible.

IMPORTANT! The voltage norm in the mains is 220 V. Permissible deviations of no more than 10% are also allowed.

The consumer, in turn, can take care of his equipment with the help of special devices that smooth out surges and compliance with the rules for operating the devices.

The increased voltage of electricity may be due to the fact that several devices with high power were simultaneously turned off in the house (for example, an automatic machine, an electric stove). Especially often occurs electricity surge in old residential buildings, with wiring that was originally intended for appliances with low power. New, modern technology requires appropriate electrical equipment;
If the voltage jumps in the network at home, then it is probably connected to a transformer with unstable operation. Such transformers, as a rule, have a long service life, obsolete and weak , worn out equipment. Power surges occur regularly. Consumers need to file a complaint with energy supply or another responsible organization, and install stabilizers at home to protect the network;
The reason for the drops can also be a weak electrical network with a long service life. If the highway was laid long ago and has not been modernized, it will not be able to reliably withstand a large load. An improved power grid around the city or between settlements can correct the situation;
Another reason is the weakening of the ground, a zero break. Such factors are the most dangerous, most of the equipment connected to the mains burns out when zero breaks and cannot be repaired;
Bad weather sometimes leads to damage to the electric line, to broken wires, and falling poles. And during an accident, there can also be a power surge before a power outage. Lightning also poses a danger to power lines - this factor refers to the natural causes of drops.

What is the danger of lowering the voltage in the network

Most often, electrical appliances suffer due to a rapid and significant increase in voltage. But even a low indicator of this value can be dangerous for equipment whose operation depends on the engine.

ATTENTION! Permissible deviations in the amount of 10% from 220V can significantly change the operation of laboratory equipment, medical diagnostic equipment.

At low voltage, the motor does not have enough power for normal operation, it overheats, its windings can burn out. The most susceptible to breakdown are household appliances with compressor units, such as refrigerators, air conditioners.

Possible consequences

Each device connected to the network during power surges can fail, burn out. High voltage, exceeding the permissible limits, leads to cable fire and other dangerous situations.

IMPORTANT! To reliably protect buildings from dangerous lightning strikes, it is necessary to use lightning protection devices. This is an important safety measure.

Therefore, during its operation, stabilizing surge protection devices. Other types of electrical appliances usually withstand small interruptions and deviations (10%) from the 220 V standard without damage.

Protection of consumer electronics at unstable current

If power surges occur, what to do, how to protect the electrical equipment of the house from damage and fire. There are several methods of surge protection:

use a relay so that the equipment does not burn out. The device connected to the network will be disconnected from the power supply when the voltage rises or falls.
use of uninterruptible power supplies and voltage stabilizers .

There are standards for the operation of electrical appliances, many of which are also aimed at protecting against power surges in the network.

ATTENTION! It will be possible to turn them back on the network only after a thorough check of the output indicator.

It is recommended to turn off the equipment before carrying out electrical installation or repair work.
During a thunderstorm, be sure to turn off sensitive electrical appliances, even if the house is equipped with a lightning protection device.

Equipment damage and compensation

If, nevertheless, preventive measures were not taken (or did not give a result) and electrical appliances burned down in the house, our actions must be competent and within the framework of the law. Your rights must be defended.

It is the responsibility of the electricity supplier and the utility company servicing the home to maintain a stable voltage on the electrical grid. They need to write low voltage statement, about jumps in the network.

If electrical appliances fail due to a sudden change in voltage, you should apply for compensation for damage.

Compensation for damaged devices

Consumers are interested not only in why there was a power surge, but also how to get compensation for electrical appliances damaged due to it. The call to the emergency service and the arrival of the brigade must be fixed.

IMPORTANT! You need to act quickly, immediately call the emergency service, report the incident, call the emergency team to confirm the fact of damage to the equipment.

This will help the court in deciding the issue of compensation. Regardless of whether the voltage dropped or rose sharply, the permissible norms were violated.

The culprit should be identified. This could be a company that services the electricity grid or an electricity supplier. Letters are sent to these authorities in which the consumer demands to indicate the reason for the power supply failure in the house, apartment, or country house. The answer should come no more than a month later.
In the electrical service, specialists give an opinion on the malfunction of the equipment, its cause, the possibility of repair and its cost. A document with these data must also be drawn up for the indemnification procedure.
The organization that is to blame for power surges is sent claim claiming damages to property. All prepared documents are attached to it.
Guilty instances do not respond to the claim? In this case, it is necessary to go to court, file a statement of claim, based on the laws on this issue.

IMPORTANT! To draw up a statement of claim, Article 17 of the Federal Law is taken as the basis Russian Federation"Consumer Protection".

You can also rely on Article 309, Part 1 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, if the culprit of what happened is the electricity supplier.

"Rules for the provision utilities citizens" (paragraphs 49, 51), "Rules for the operation housing stock”(clause 5.6), “Rules for keeping in property in apartment building” (paragraph 7) - these documents are additionally used when applying for compensation if the damage to electrical appliances was due to the fault of the company servicing the electrical networks of the house.

IMPORTANT! In case of voltage drops in the network apartment building or a plot with private houses, neighbors could also suffer. Their testimony will help you get compensation.

Useful video

Protection against power surges of household electrical networks, varieties protective devices and how to install them.

The structural imperfection of electrical networks is the main cause of sudden voltage surges. It is impossible to predict the time of the next drop. The only thing we can do to prevent unpleasant consequences is to secure electrical consumers in our home in advance. In this article, we will tell you how and how to protect the network of an apartment and a house.

What will save you from the jumpdressing up

Surge protection is possible with different types protective devices. We'll talk about the most common ones. These are voltage control relays (RN) and household stabilizers.

Surge Protection Relay

Protecting the house from power surges with the help of PH is recommended in cases where the mains voltage is stable and its noticeable surges are rare. RN is a device capable of reading parameters electric current and tear electrical circuit at the moment when the indicators go beyond the specified range. After the indicators in the general network are normalized, the device will automatically close the circuit and resume power to consumers. The function of resuming power after a specified period of time (with a delay) built into the 220v home voltage relay helps to extend the life of some household appliances, refrigerators, etc.

PH have small dimensions, relatively low cost and good performance. The disadvantages of PH include their inability to smooth out fluctuations in electrical energy. For maximum protection of all consumers, you will need to install several devices at once.

RN protects the network only from unacceptable power surges and is not designed to protect against short circuits (this function is performed by circuit breakers).

Modern models of launch vehicles are of three types:

1. Stationary relay built into the electrical panel of a house or apartment.

2. Relay for individual protection of one consumer.

3. Relay for individual protection of several consumers.

If everything is practically clear with the operation of the relays of the second and third types, then the first type has a more complex design, and its installation requires certain knowledge. Such devices are mounted at the entrance to the room, so protection against power surges in the network of all home electrical equipment is performed.

PH selection

When choosing a relay to protect the home network, it is enough to know the rating of the electric current that is able to pass through the input circuit breaker. If, for example, the capacity of the circuit breaker is 25A (which corresponds to a power consumption of 5.5 kW), then the performance of the RH should be a step higher - 32A (7 kW). If the switch is designed for 32A, then the relay must withstand a current of 40 - 50A.

loa FORUMHOUSE user

For such a case, I took a 40 A relay, with an introductory machine 25/32 (it is the first one, but the setting will increase).

Some people choose the brand of RN based on the total power consumption. This is not entirely correct. After all, a relay capable of withstanding a current of 32A can safely operate both at a load of 7 kW and at much higher power consumption. Only in the second case, it is necessary to integrate a special magnetic contactor into the operating circuit of the LV. But more on that in the next section.

PH installation

The standard installation scheme of the launch vehicle in switchboard shown in the figure. This is the simplest surge protection.

Work on the installation of the PH should be carried out only with the input switch turned off!

As you can see, everything is simple: the control relay is installed immediately after the electric meter and connected to the phase wire, through which the entire house is supplied with electricity. When jumping outside the set (adjustable) range, the relay disconnects the external power supply from the internal wiring, and protection against power surges is performed in the apartment and in the house.

PH, mounted in the panel of the shield, occupies a minimum of space on the DIN rail.

If the power of consumers of the home network gives a total of 7 kW or more, manufacturers strongly recommend that an additional electromagnetic contactor be built into the operating circuit of the PH. Although, a reliable contactor in general scheme will never become an extra detail, see the following comment:

Vitichek FORUMHOUSE user

It is better to put a contactor to any relay, although the manufacturers write that the PH can withstand high currents. The contactor has large contacts and less resistance.

This device helps to unload the contacts of the RN, independently disconnecting power line from the general network of household consumers. The control relay, at the moment of unacceptable overvoltage, only gives a command to turn off. After that, the electromagnetic coil of the contactor disconnects the power contacts connecting the external and internal networks. The connection diagram in this case will be as follows:

Voltage surge protection system.

Surge protection 220v

In order for the RH to benefit its owner, its operating parameters (voltage tolerance limits and power-up delay time) must be properly adjusted. If one pH is used in the working circuit, then the limits of permissible values \u200b\u200bshould be set, focusing on the characteristics of household appliances that are sensitive to drops. The most sensitive and expensive equipment is audio and video equipment. The range of permissible voltage values for it is 200 - 230V.

The permissible voltage deviation from the nominal values in domestic power networks is 10% (198 ... 242V). In the case of frequent operation of the PH, these indicators can be taken as a basis by adjusting the relay. However, sensitive consumer electronics in this case are recommended to be protected using portable stabilizers of low price.

DenBak FORUMHOUSE user

Nobody says that it is necessary to turn off at plus or minus 15V. There is a range of maximum permissible deviations of 10%, which most devices must withstand. You need to set, based on this, approximately 190V-250V. Although, with our state of networks, especially in the private sector, everything is expected. So sensible caution can't hurt.

In order to ensure the most reliable protection of all consumers, an electrical circuit with several relays should be used. Working scheme protection, including several RH, allows you to divide consumers into groups - in accordance with their sensitivity to overvoltage:

The first group includes audio and video equipment (permissible voltage values - 200 - 230V);
The second category includes household appliances equipped with an electric motor: refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, etc. (permissible values - 190 - 235V);
The third group is simple heating devices and lighting (permissible values - 170 - 250V).

Each group of consumers is connected to its own pH. In such a scheme, the operating parameters of each relay are configured individually.

Network protection against overvoltage and surges.

The power-on delay time should be in accordance with the performance requirements of household appliances. For some refrigerators, for example, the recommended delay is 10 minutes.

Protection of a three-phase network using PH

If the power supply to your house is carried out through a three-phase system, then it is advisable to install a separate control relay for each phase.

Three-phase voltage relays are designed exclusively for the protection of the relevant equipment (electric motor, etc.). If such a relay is installed at the input to the dwelling, then a voltage imbalance in one of the phases leads to a de-energization of all single-phase consumers.

Surge Protectors

If there are constant power surges in your house, then the PH will work several times a day, de-energizing the entire house. Therefore, in such cases, a less simple, more expensive, but also more practical way to protect home electronics is recommended. It consists in the use of stabilizers - devices that smooth out voltage surges in the external network, giving out a constant indicator of 220V at the output.

According to the type of connection, two types of stabilizers are distinguished: local (which are connected to the outlet, protecting from one to several consumers) and stationary (connected to the input power cable and protecting all consumers of the home network). Local stabilizers should be used to protect the most sensitive household appliances. They can be operated in conjunction with a stationary launcher.
Stationary stabilizers are complex devices that not only smooth out voltage fluctuations in the entire household network, but are also able to save expensive equipment by automatically turning off the power to consumers when overloaded and reaching critical values.

It is highly recommended to install stationary stabilizers if the voltage value goes beyond 205 ... 235V several times a day (this can be determined using an ordinary tester).

If the light in the house is constantly blinking, and the voltage goes beyond 195 ... 245V, then it is forbidden to use household electrical appliances without a stabilizer!

How to choose a stabilizer

The stabilizer should be chosen based on the total power of domestic consumers. The device must have a decent power reserve.

According to the interstate standard GOST 29322-92, since 2003 in Russia, the voltage standard in domestic industrial power networks must correspond to 230 volts.

However, the actual voltage in the electrical outlets of apartments or private houses often differs significantly from the normalized value. Often there are power surges in the mains, and devices from power surges in the mains can instantly burn out. How to prevent this and where to go, we will consider in this article.

Dear readers! Our articles talk about typical ways to resolve legal issues, but each case is unique.

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Causes of power surges in the network

The most common cause of power surges is transients that occur every time a consumer is connected or disconnected to the network. The more power the electrical installation is switched, the stronger the amplitude of the voltage surge in the network. Examples: a neighbor connected a home-made "welder". The mains voltage drops, especially when he starts welding. And if you turn off all the electric heaters in half of the apartment building at the same time, then we get a voltage jump in the power grid in the direction of increase.
The next most common reason is a break or burnout of the neutral wire. This defect occurs due to emergency on power lines or with poor quality installation of power supply systems for residential buildings. With such a malfunction, it is possible to increase the voltage up to 380 volts due to uneven distribution of loads on different phases in the mains.
Another reason for changing the standard voltage in the network is installation errors during repairs. If a negligent electrician connects the phase of the network to the neutral conductor, then instead of 220 volts, there will be 380 volts in the sockets.
The only natural cause of overvoltage in the network is a lightning strike. In this case, the magnitude of the difference depends on the proximity of the impact.

The danger of increased mains voltage is obvious - electrical appliances fail, do not withstand, from cheap incandescent lamps to expensive computers and TVs.
What is the danger of low voltage?

IMPORTANT! The most vulnerable electrical installations to undervoltage are those that incorporate motors. With a lack of electromotive force, the starting torque of the motor is significantly reduced (especially for induction motors), they are unable to overcome the resistance of the attached mechanisms. The motor overheats and its windings burn out. The danger of such an outcome is most likely in compressor units (for example, refrigerators or air conditioners).

Protecting the power grid from power surges: how to prevent power surges and possible damage from them

How to avoid power surges in the network? Fortunately, there are both technical and organizational measures to protect electrical networks from power surges.
Technical measures include:

Using a voltage stabilizer. This device allows you to compensate for jumps in one direction or another. Top Models they give out a stable voltage of 220 volts (± 5%) even with network drops from 140 to 260 volts.
Installation of a relay that disconnects devices from the network at extreme voltage changes. Such relays will protect household electrical installations from failure. When the network stabilizes, the relay resumes power to the connected devices.
Installation of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). Such a measure will allow you to maintain the serviceability of household appliances even with a complete short-term power outage. The UPS uses built-in rechargeable batteries, which provide power in the event of a power outage. They are mainly used for working with computers. Such devices will protect against both low voltage and power surges.
Device for reliable lightning protection of residential buildings.

Organizational measures include:

switching off devices before repair and electrical installation work and switching them on to the network only after checking the output voltage
switching off especially sensitive devices from the socket in case of lightning hazard

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to protect your equipment from network problems in a timely manner.

Can the damage caused by a power surge be repaired?

What to do in case of power surges and is it possible to compensate for damage to damaged household appliances? It is possible, the approximate procedure is as follows:

Important! If a power surge occurs in your presence, call the emergency services immediately, report the incident and request that the report be registered. Call the emergency team, which will be able to fix the fact of a malfunction in the power supply on the spot. In the future, this measure will serve as evidence in court.

Determine who is responsible for the damage. As a rule, this is one of two organizations:
electricity supply company;
home electrical service company.
To complete this item, you must write a statement to both organizations and demand a response indicating the reasons for the network problems. The organization has 30 days to submit a response.
To determine the causes of damage, companies can create special commissions or involve third-party experts who will conduct an examination of the state of power supply networks and failed equipment. One copy or a copy of the examination report is sent to the applicant.
Take damaged household appliances to a service center and request an opinion on the causes of the failure and the possible cost of repairs. An expert damage assessment can be done. The cost of this service must subsequently be included in the claim.
Send a written complaint to the person responsible for the damage claiming damages. Attach copies of expert opinions, inspection certificates to the appeal.
If the guilty organization (or a specific person) refused, or did not respond at all to the appeal within 30 days, then the next step is to go to court with a statement of claim on the basis of Article 17 of the Federal Law "On Protection of Consumer Rights". Another option for this action is to apply to the prosecutor's office with a request to protect the violated rights. In this case, the prosecutor will draw up the claim.

It happens that a specific person (for example, a neighbor) who independently carried out repairs and violated the rules for installing or operating electrical installations becomes the culprit of causing harm.

If the culprit of the damage was the company supplying electricity, then the statement of claim indicates a reference to Article 309, Part 1 of Article 539 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, Part 1 of Article 547, Articles 4, 7 and 14 federal law"Consumer Protection".

If the culprit is a company that maintains engineering networks at home, then refer to the violation of Articles 309 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, Articles 4, 7 and 14 of the Federal Law "On Protection of Consumer Rights", paragraphs 49 and 51 of the "Rules for the provision of public services to citizens", paragraph 5.6 of the "Rules and norms for the technical operation of the housing stock”, paragraph 7 of the “Rules for the maintenance of common property in a residential apartment building”.

IMPORTANT: To make it easier for the judge to make a decision in your favor, to statement of claim additionally include testimonies of neighbors who have fallen into a similar situation.

Summing up the article, it should be noted that it is easier to take measures in advance to protect home equipment from power surges than to waste time and nerves in the courts.