Introduction

Recently, there has been a surge in reports of electrical equipment failures during power reactivations. Home appliances, car chargers, air conditioners, and even an inverter have been reported damaged, and this is only among people I know over the past few days. What’s causing these issues, and more importantly, how can you protect your appliances?

Understanding the Problem

1. Transient Phenomena During Power Reactivation

When the power supply is reactivated, transient phenomena occur due to the simultaneous switching on of thousands of electrical devices such as refrigerators and pumps. These events create electrical surges that can be harmful to your equipment.

2. Imperfect Switching Equipment

Due to imperfect switching equipment, the reactivation process can extend over several tenths of a second. This delay can be detrimental to the connected devices. The more frequent the on/off cycles, the worse the situation becomes over time.

Solutions to Protect Your Equipment

1. Install Voltage Relays

  • Set Voltage Limits: Install voltage relays to set upper and lower voltage limits at 245 and 180 volts, respectively. This range is optimal for protection; there’s no need to widen it.

  • Delay Reactivation: Configure the voltage relays to delay reactivation by 15 seconds after the power is restored. This helps mitigate the immediate surge impact.

2. Immediate Action Required

It’s crucial to implement these measures as soon as possible. The situation is unlikely to improve in the near future, and taking preventive steps now can save your appliances from potential damage.

Conclusion

Power surges during reactivation can cause significant damage to household appliances and other electrical equipment. Understanding the causes and taking proactive steps, such as installing voltage relays and setting appropriate voltage limits, can help protect your valuable devices. Don’t wait for the situation to worsen—act now to safeguard your home.

By understanding these issues and implementing the recommended solutions, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your electrical equipment and ensure a safer, more reliable power supply for your home.