The voltage protector (also known as an over/under-voltage protector) is a crucial guardian for your home appliances' safety. When it detects dangerous situations like excessively high voltage (overvoltage) or low voltage (undervoltage), it immediately cuts off the power supply to prevent appliances from being burned out or damaged. But have you noticed the delay options usually labeled "5S", "30S", or "3M" on the protector? This "delay" does NOT refer to the protector's reaction time. Instead, it means how long the protector will wait after cutting off the power due to a protection action before it automatically attempts to restore the power supply. This setting seems simple, but choosing the wrong one can be counterproductive!
Why is a Delay Needed?
- Restoring power immediately after a voltage anomaly might seem efficient, but it harbors significant hidden dangers:Risk of Unstable Voltage: The grid fault or fluctuation might not be fully resolved yet. Restoring power immediately risks exposing appliances to a second abnormal impact.
- Risk of Equipment Damage (Core Issue!): For appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners that contain compressors, the internal high pressure needs time to release (depressurize) after a power cut. If power is restored instantly (or too soon), the compressor effectively experiences a "start under load". The starting current becomes extremely high, making it very easy to cause severe damage like burning out the compressor windings.
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Protector's Own Lifespan: Frequent instantaneous power cuts followed by immediate restoration (especially during grid fluctuations) increases the stress on internal components like relays, shortening the protector's lifespan.
Therefore, the delay function provides a "cooling-off and stabilization period" for the power grid and a "safe depressurization period" for sensitive equipment (especially compressors). It's a key element in achieving genuine protection.
