SPDs Explained

SPDs are essential to prevent high current or voltage spikes and surges from entering your home and stop damaging current and voltage from entering your appliances, entertainment center, phones, or other sensitive electronics. The two types of surge devices of most interest to homeowners are Type 1 SPDs and Type 3 SPDs.

A Type 1 SPD is the first line of defense. It is normally installed outside at the electrical service entrance to your home and reduces surges to a level that protects large motor appliances such as Air Conditioning, Washer, Dryer, Refrigerator, Dishwasher. These devices must be installed by qualified personnel from your electric power company (e.g. SECO Energy) or electrician.

A Type 3 SPD is often called a “point-of-use device” is needed to further reduce damaging current and voltage that passes thru the Type 1 SPD and could destroy smaller appliances, entertainment center, phones, or other sensitive electronics. Type 3 is easily installed by the homeowner.