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Save Your Electronics with TVSS - Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors

Home Theater System

What Is TVSS?

A transient voltage surge suppressor, or TVSS, is a damage control device that limits surge voltages and currents on electrical circuits. These over-voltages can come from inside a building or may be introduced from outside into an electrical system. It protects your home equipment and is the most widely used form of an over-voltage suppression device.

How Does A TVSS Work?

A TVSS is activated when hit by electricity and works by preventing power from reaching the equipment that it is connected to. It withstands surge damage and essentially protects you by working as a cutoff switch.

The destructive forces will do damage if the component (such as a DVD player) cannot withstand that voltage, and the damage can be cumulative if repeated. The TVSS device should be connected to all points where the damage can enter, such as the main service panel, the cable TV and telephone incoming lines, and near sensitive electronic equipment.

The TVSS limits the voltage to an acceptable level and absorbs or diverts the energy present in the surge. Higher quality TVSS devices use “sine wave tracking” MOV electronics to wrap the 60-hertz sine wave within an envelope to keep surges clamped within specs at any phase angle.

As with most equipment, it is worth spending somewhat more for the better devices that can bring peace of mind, particularly with all of the circuit boards and electronics in the average home or business today.

Why Is A TVSS Important?

Installing a TVSS keeps your home equipment safe from transient waves of electrical currents—also known as electrical surges. It is important because it protects you and your home from discharges originate from stored energy. This could include discharges that are derived from air conditioners, motors, capacitors, power line switches, lightning, arc welders, or furnace igniters.

TVSS VS SPD

Simply put, a surge protective device (SPD) and a transient voltage surge suppressor (TVSS) are the same thing. SPD is the term used today that has replaced TVSS in recent years, although TVSS is still widely used.

TVSS Electrician speaking with client

Are you looking to install a TVSS in your home? Contact Reliant Electric Works Inc and count on our experts to get the job done right for you. (802) 992-1742.