Surge Protector vs Surge Arrester: Which is Right for Your Needs?
16th Jun 2025
When lightning strikes or grid fluctuations occur, electrical systems without the proper defenses are vulnerable to failure or destruction. That’s why devices like surge arresters and surge protectors are indispensable. But although these two terms are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. Understanding their differences—and how each works—is crucial to selecting the right surge protection device for your home, business, or industrial setup. Let’s explore the surge protector vs surge arrester debate in full so you can confidently safeguard your equipment, especially if you’re running sensitive installations like solar PV systems, data centers, or industrial control networks. What is a Surge Arrester? A surge arrester is a protective device that diverts high-voltage transients, such as lightning strikes or switching surges, away from critical equipment. It typically connects between a power line and the ground, activating only when the voltage exceeds a specific threshold. Key Functions: Surge arresters are typically positioned where power first enters a facility, providing a frontline defense against incoming voltage spikes. They act as the first line of defense, stopping damaging voltage from even entering the internal circuit. What is a Surge Protector? Hero Product Highlight TSP8 Surge Protector TSP8 Surge Protector by TOSUNlux offers fast, reliable protection against lightning and overvoltage for your electrical systems. View Product A surge protector—often referred to as a surge protection device or SPD—primarily safeguards the internal circuitry of electrical systems from voltage surges. It clamps and absorbs voltage spikes within an electrical system, providing protection for sensitive electronic devices. TOSUNlux’s Solar PV Surge Protector […]
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