What gauge wire are surge protectors?
Use AWG #10 stranded wire or larger (which is readily available and easily installed) to connect between the SPD and the breaker panel. Avoid sharp bends and excess length in the wiring.
What is 12-gauge wire used for?
12-gauge are used in kitchen, bathroom, outdoor receptacles, and 120-volt air conditioners supporting 20 amps. 10-gauge are used in electric clothes dryers, 240-volt window air conditioners, electric water heaters supporting 30 amps. 6-gauge are used for cook tops and ranges carrying 40-50 amps.
How do I know what gauge wire to use?
To determine what gauge wire you need, consider the carrying capacity and the amount of current the wire needs to conduct (measured in amperage or amps). Wire gauge is directly related to how many amps you need to run through it. The distance you need the wire to go can also impact the gauge of wire you need.
How can I tell what gauge my surge protector is?
Most important is the marking that tells the size (gauge) of the wires in the cord; it is usually something like “16/3.” This indicates a three-conductor (grounded) #16 American Wire Gauge (AWG) cord. Other markings tell the type or physical construction of the extension cord.
Which is better 10 gauge or 12 gauge extension cord?
Round down = 10 Gauge. Most devices will do fine with 12 gauge extension cords. Power hungry devices such as lawnmowers, heavy machines, require a lower gauge such as 10AWG. Keep in mind, the lower the gauge means the thicker the cord.
What should you look for when buying a surge protector?
Energy absorption/dissipation: This rating, given in joules, tells you how much energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. A higher number indicates more excellent protection. 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.
What does the UL rating of a surge protector mean?
There are three protection levels in the UL rating — 330 V, 400 V, and 500 V. Generally, a clamping voltage of more than 400 V is too high. Energy absorption/dissipation: This rating, given in joules, tells you how much energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. A higher number indicates more excellent protection.
What is the clamping voltage of a power surge protector?
If it has a high clamping voltage, even a small power surge can still damage your devices. Many average surge protectors have a clamping voltage of 330 volts. You shouldn’t buy anything with a higher voltage than this. The joule rating of your surge protector tells you how much energy dissipation your surge protection has. But what does this mean?
How many joules do I need for power surge protection?
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.