Surge Protectors, Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) are devices meant to protect your appliances, such as computers and refrigerators, from power damage.
However, each of these devices work in slightly different manners as they are meant to provide protection for your appliance in different situations.
In the Philippines, there are six common power problems that you should be aware of. Today, we’ll be focusing on the three power problems addressed by these devices – namely:
- Power surge
- Voltage fluctuation (voltage spike and voltage deficit)
- Blackout/brownout (power outages)
As their respective name implies:
- A surge protector protects electrical devices against specific instances of fast high voltage surges.
- An AVR provides 24/7 protection to your appliances. It does so by regulating the voltage fluctuations that occur in the power supply. This ensures the output voltage delivered to the appliance remains constant at all times.
- A UPS ensures uninterruptible power supply during power outages. This provides sufficient time for you to save data and close down your computer properly.
But first, let’s discuss each of these in more detail so their differences and respective advantage will become more apparent.
How does the surge protector, AVR, and UPS work?
Surge Protector
FUNCTION
A surge protector, commonly built into extension cords, typically consists of a varistor. This small part will shunt a sudden high voltage surge to prevent them from reaching and damaging your electronics. To simplify, you can think of it as a shock absorber.
Take note, the varistor itself would have a limited lifespan.
Keep an eye out for the Joules rating. This is an indicator of the total energy the varistor can shunt/absorb before the varistor will no longer work.
- A higher Joule rating generally means that the surge protector can last longer when dissipating smaller spikes.
- The maximum Surge Current rating indicates the maximum current it can withstand before failing.
USAGE
Voltage surge could occur almost anywhere under the right conditions (e.g. national grid load balancing, after a power outage). Therefore, surge protectors are considered an easy and cheap investment for electronic devices you’d like to protect. But, keep in mind varistors have to be replaced when it gets burnt out.
AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator)
FUNCTION
Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) are used to regulate and stabilize voltage fluctuations found in the voltage supply (e.g. Meralco power source). This ensures a stable voltage output into the connected appliance. Depending on the AVR design, the adjustment in voltage can occur either through servo motor mechanism or a relay/transistor mechanism.
Unlike the surge protector, a good quality AVR should last for a long time provided you use it properly. Make sure to only plug in appliances that are within the rated capacity (Watts, or VA) of the AVR.
USAGE
In the Philippines, voltage fluctuations occur frequently throughout the day, depending on the area you’re located in. As such, AVRs are a must-have investment for appliances used 24/7. These appliances include refrigerators, aircons, computers and other work devices.
How would you know if the voltage in your area isn’t stable?
Well, common signs of voltage fluctuation would be when lights flicker, grow dim, or grow unusually bright. These indicate voltage issues in the power supply, and can cause shortened lifespan for your equipment in the long-run.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)
FUNCTION
An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is meant to serve as “backup electricity” in the event of a power outage. In the event of a sudden blackout, you’ll have sufficient time (courtesy of the UPS backup power) to properly save your documents and shut down the device properly.
Note that the UPS battery itself has a lifespan of ~2+ years only. However, if the UPS is regularly exposed to high temperature or heat from current, or if it discharges power frequently due to regular power outages in the area, then the life span of the battery will be significantly reduced.
USAGE
A UPS is most often used with computers, WIFI routers, and printers. This is to allow you to wrap up critical work, as well as prevent data loss in the event of a power outage.
What are the differences between the surge protector, AVR and UPS?
Based on the function and usage of each device, there are three main areas of difference across the surge protector, AVR, and UPS:
- Level of protection provided,
- Devices they’re suitable for, and
- Price tag
Level of protection provided
Let’s go back to the original set of power problems introduced at the beginning of this article: power surge, voltage fluctuation, and power outages.
Surge protectors provide the most limited amount of protection. Surge protectors only protect your appliance from voltage surges up to a certain amount of power (as indicated by the Joules)
On the other hand, AVRs provide 24/7 protection from voltage fluctuations. This protection is for both voltage spikes (overvoltage) and voltage dips (undervoltage), provided the AVR is used in line with its rated capacity.
Lastly, a UPS provides backup power during a power outage. While power outages may not occur as often, having this protection becomes invaluable when this event happens so you’re not caught off-guard and your data and equipment can be better protected.
Of course, it is certainly possible for your device to have a mix of these protection features in place. When combined, this provides a more holistic set of protection for your device. For example:
- Certain AVRs have power-on-delay feature. This could serve as additional protection from voltage surge that typically occurs post power-outage.
- Line Interactive UPS and Online UPS also provide voltage regulation features, which certainly increase the level of protection it affords to connected devices
Devices they’re suitable for
As surge protectors are the cheapest, they’re a cheap investment if you’re short on budget but still want to offer protection to your device. However, do keep in mind that this protection won’t last forever.
An AVR, on the other hand, should definitely be considered for pricier equipment, which typically have sensitive electronic components that could be damaged from continuous voltage fluctuations.
A UPS, given its main function of providing backup power, is more suited for devices where an additional few minutes of power to finalize your work or play could make a significant difference for you. In fact, a UPS is typically a must-have for companies and work offices. As such, connected devices would typically include computers, WiFi routers, printers, and gaming devices for hardcore gamers.
Price tag
Clearly, the greater the level of protection, the more expensive the price.
Having said that, you might be wondering why a UPS is so expensive if it’s only meant to provide backup power during a power outage. That’s because the UPS battery itself is quite expensive, and this is really what makes up the bulk of a UPS’ cost.
This article discussed:
- How does the Surge Protector, AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator), and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) work?
- What are the differences between the Surge Protector, AVR, and UPS across:
- Level of Protection
- Device each item is suitable for
- Price tag
So, now that you’ve learned the basic differences in functionality, level of protection, and devices each is suitable for – we hope you have a better idea of what you actually need: a surge protector, a voltage regulator, or an uninterruptible power supply.
Interested to purchase? Check out our available Voltage Protector products. For your easy reference, we’ve indicated the level of protection each product series provides. If you have any questions, you can contact us through this link
To allow you easier access to the products you’re interested in, please see links below:
- PVT: Panther Manual Variable Voltage Regulator
- PVE: Panther Relay Type AVR for 220V
- PVR: Panther Relay Type AVR w/ Built-In Transformer (100V, 110V, 220V output)
- PVS: Panther Servo Motor Type AVR w/ Built-In Transformer (100V, 110V, 220V output)
- PVP: Panther Voltage Protector
- PPD: Panther Power On Delay
- PAT: Panther Aircon-to-Fan Timer
- PSP: Panther Extension Cord w/ Surge Protection and Line Noise Filter Protection
- PUP: Panther Uninterruptible Power Supply
Hi Panther,
I’m an Audio Systems Contractor. I’ve used your auto voltage regulators, particularly the PVE relay type series for 6 years already without encountering any problems. However, as your published article says – the relays or servo motors inside needs to be serviced too due to deterioration. How will we know if our auto voltage regulators need servicing already? How many years? Let’s say we use it on a daily basis. Is there a basic guide, like our detailed car manuals, which says change oil or filters on a certain number of kilometers or months, whichever comes first. Also, how can I get both surge protection and voltage regulation protection from your products, for the audio systems I install for my clients? Plug an AVR to the wall, then plug your extension cord (with varistor) to the AVR, then plug the audio system to the extension cord? Is this even safe? Why not simply put a varistor on all your AVRs so we can have both protection, if that’s possible. Also, there is a power conditioner component from the brand Furman model PL-PRO PMC which features a none sacrificial surge protection (unlike varistor) so you can simply plug and forget about any maintenance. But it is expensive, at around P25K+, and not all of our customers could afford it. Hope you can make something like this which is affordable for our local market.
Good day! We’re happy to hear you use our PVE AVR series without any issue. To answer your questions, please see below:
1) Please note that AVR degradation occurs faster when the AVR “works more” (e.g. regulates voltage more often due to high voltage fluctuation in your area). As such, it’s difficult to estimate in # of years, as each location would have different voltage fluctuation characteristics. Some rule of thumb to apply however could be as follows:
a. If you notice non-stop clicking sound from your AVR: Clicking sounds are normal and are an indicator that your AVR is working to regulate the voltage entering your device. However, when the clicking sound is non-stop, this could be indicative that your AVR needs to be brought in for checkup and recalibration
b. When the voltmeter is no longer pointing to 220V +/- 7%, which is considered to be the acceptable output voltage range of the AVR, this is also indicative that your AVR requires checkup and recalibration
c. When the above two situation occurs, feel free to bring in your AVR to our service center. Kindly note that all Panther AVRs are under Lifetime SERVICE Warranty, so servicing and recalibration is free of charge.
2) To provide both surge protection and voltage regulation for the audio systems you’re installing, kindly plug in the extension cord w/ surge protection (PSP) onto the wall outlet, then plug in the AVR into the extension cord, then your appliance onto the AVR. This is a safe method to do.
We thank you for your feedback on our products. We are continuously seeking to improve our products while maintaining an affordable price point, and will pass on these comments to our R&D team.
Hi, looking to buy a good avr, but can i use an avr in an ungrounded socket and still have all its protection or features?
Good day! Even if you plug in the AVR into an ungrounded socket, rest assured:
– The AVR’s voltage regulation protection will still continue to function as intended.
– Likewise, if the AVR you purchased has a built-in power-on-delay feature, then that will also function as is.
We hope this answers your question!
Good day, what kind of protection do you recommend for a stereo component system around 300 watts? Do I need the three products, surge protector, AVR and UPS? thank you
Good day! For your stereo somponent system, we would recommend both the AVR (for 24/7 voltage regulation) and the surge protection (for sudden burst of voltage surges). Please see below links for AVRs and surge protectors you can consider:
– AVR (relay type, 220V output): https://panther.ph/product-category/appliance-protection/automatic-voltage-regulator/pve-relay-type/
– Surge protectors: https://panther.ph/product-category/appliance-protection/voltage-protection/extension-cords-w-voltage-surge-protector/
We hope this helps!
good day, thank you for your response, another question po, can I use your new product the PVP instead of the PSP? I only need one outlet dedicated for the PVE 500, i don’t need the extra outlets which the PSP has. thank you
Good day! Yes, that’s certainly possible. For your reference, here’s the PVP 2500: https://panther.ph/product/pvp-2500-panther-voltage-protector/
AM Prema beautician. AVR price tell me.
Good day! Is there a particular AVR you’re interested in? Or what appliance do you want to plug into the AVR? Kindly let us know and we can then provide an AVR recommendation and price quotation for you.
Is it possible to hook up a a PC to a UPS to AVR to surge protector?
Good day! Yes, you can hook up the PC to a UPS, then an AVR, then a surge protector. Kindly note that Panther UPS products already have a built-in AVR already, so you would not need to have a separate AVR for this. We hope this helps!
Do you sell a whole house AVR? Currently, living in USA but retiring in Quezon province in a year or 2. Built a house in Quezon and electrical outlets don’t have a 3 prong grounded outlets like in the US. I saw a Levitron whole house AVR that can be installed by the electrical panel box but installation requires a wire to be attached to the ground wire. My electrical panel only have 2 wires – black & neutral. Is the neutral wire the ground wire there in the Philippines? Thanks a lot for your help.
Good day! Unfortunately we do not sell a whole house AVR. You can see our available AVR product line here: https://panther.ph/product-category/appliance-protection/automatic-voltage-regulator/pve-relay-type/
We would recommend checking with your house electrician to be sure, but houses today should be built with black, neutral, and ground wires already. We hope this helps!
My question. Can I use one of your AVR’s to work in this scenario: I am interested in protecting a whole house dehumidifier from “brownout” situations typical common during the summer months. I recently replaced this dehumidifier due to low voltage ruining the motor…cost $3,600 to replace.
Dehumidifier runs on a 15 Amp circuit, but at startup draws 20 Amps for 1 to 2 seconds. Once running the unit draws 8.6 Amps. The documentation states the power is 920 watts @ 80 degrees F and 60% RH. This unit is located in Florida (USA).
Best Regards,
Bill Hayhurst
Good day! You can certainly use an AVR to protect your dehumidifier – we would suggest getting one with a power-on-delay for further protection, especially if you experience frequent brownouts in the area. Given the startup power consumption is at 20 Amps @ 115V (60Hz, single phase), you would require a 3000 Watts AVR for your dehumidifier – something similar to this except our PVS 3000 is currently designed for the 220V power supply of the Philippines.
We hope this helps!
One piece of info I forgot to include regarding the dehumidifier: Supply Voltage is 115 Volt – 1 phase – 60 Hz.
Hallo. I work in an office setup with generator backup power. The genset ATS has been fried twice by power surges. Do you have a 60KVA AVR in your product portfolio? An SPD was installed during the second ATS replacement but still it could not protect the ATS coil. what would be your recommendation?
Good day! Kindly email us at pantherproduct@gmail.com with your specific AVR specification requirements, so we can best support you. Thank you!
Hi, I have a MacBook Air, a 22″ BenQ LED Monitor, and a Flexispot Electric Standing Desk (with 2 motors) what AVR model should I buy? Thanks
Good day! Kindly check the total power consumption of your MacBook Air, BenQ LED Monitor, and Flexispot Electric Standing Desk. To calculate for the relay-type AVR capacity required, you can then check out this article: https://panther.ph/how-to-calculate-appliance-capacity-requirements/
We hope this helps!! Here’s the full list of relay-type AVR we have available: https://panther.ph/product-category/appliance-protection/automatic-voltage-regulator/pve-relay-type/
Feel free to reach out to us if you still have questions!
This has been very informative. You mentioned that UPS serves as a “backup electricity” in the event of a power outage. In this case, what makes UPS different from a power generator? Or are they almost the same?
Good day! Thanks for reaching out to us. You ask a great question. The main difference of the UPS and power generator would be as follows:
1) The Uninterruptible Power Supply is that it is able to near instantaneously take over the main power supply in instances of power disruptions which would prevent data loss and minimize device damage due to incorrect shutdown. On the other hand, Generators would experience a “lag” time before it can accomplish the switch
2) The Power Generator will be able to provide power based on its diesel source, while the UPS is dependent on its battery source (usually ~6-20 mins runtime)
Given this, we find clients use a combination of both UPS and power generator to (1) instantaneously perform the switch (UPS), and (2) sustain the power for a longer period (generator)
We hope this helps. You can check out this article also for more information: https://panther.ph/benefits-of-a-ups-uninterruptible-power-supply/#whats-the-difference-between-a-ups-a-power-inverter-an-inverter-charger-and-a-generator
Can I use your surge protector with a step-down transformer?
I read from this article that it is dangerous and may cause a fire.
https://www.gson.org/stepdown/
Good day! Yes, you can use our surge protector with our step-down transformer; as the placement of our varistor would not cause any of the issues stated in the article. We hope this helps!
Is it okay to use your surge protector and then plug in the AVR to the surge protector and PC is plugged in to AVR? BTW I’m using a different AVR brand. But I do have Panther Surge Protector.
Good day! Yes, it should be OK. Just make sure the appliances you plug into the AVR do NOT exceed the AVR’s capacity. Likewise, the AVR’s capacity should be equal to or less than the Panther Surge Protector’s capacity (2500 Watts). We hope this helps!
Good day. What product of yours can you recommend for a sound system used for lights and sounds rental in order to protect the audio mixer, amplifiers and powered speakers from sudden power interruption?
Good day, are you perhaps looking for a power on delay device?
Power on delay – When turned on or when power comes back after a power interruption, the surge is quite high and is damaging to equipment. The power on delay will delay power supply by 3-5 minutes, which is enough time for voltage to stabilize before supplying power to your equipment
If you are, you may consider the PPD 1000 model – this model has a maximum capacity of 2500 watts, but it does not have an on/off switch
Model: PPD 1000
Product link: https://panther.ph/product/ppd-1000-power-on-delay/
Or are you looking for an AVR (automatic Voltage regulator), this regulates voltage fluctuations. There is a model with built in power on delay feature as well.
AVR with power on delay
Model: PVE 2001 D
Capacity: 2000 Watts
Product link: https://panther.ph/product/pve-2001-d-relay-type-avr/
Hi! Is it okay to plugged in 2 computer set to a voltage surge protector. 2 monitor, 2 cpu, and a speaker (220 240v-50hz-24w)
Good day! It should be OK so long as the total power consumption of all appliances plugged into the voltage surge protector does NOT exceed the surge protector’s max capacity. For example, Panther’s PSP voltage surge protector’s max capacity is 2500 Watts.
What would you recommend for an Ice Plant suffering from voltage fluctuation?
Good day! If the voltage supply in your area is fluctuating, best to have an AVR to regulate the voltage fluctuation. AVR model and capacity will depend on your equipment’s peak power. You may email us at pantherproduct@gmail.com so we can better assist you for your inquiry!
We hope this helps. Please do message us if you have any questions!