Why are surge protection devices important in electrical installations?

Surge protection devices are crucial in electrical installations primarily because they safeguard equipment from voltage spikes or transients that can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, power surges, or sudden changes in electrical loads. These voltage spikes can exceed the normal operating voltage levels significantly and can lead to catastrophic failures or degradation of electronic components, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

By absorbing or redirecting the excess voltage, surge protection devices help prevent potential damage to sensitive electronic equipment, ensuring its longevity and reliability. This protection is fundamental for maintaining the integrity of electrical systems and avoiding disruptions in operation.

While improving efficiency, proper grounding, and maintaining a good power factor are important aspects of electrical system design and operation, they do not specifically address the threat posed by voltage transients, which is precisely what surge protection devices are designed for.