Outline
- Introduction
- What Is NEMA Standard?
- What Are Electrical Surges And Their Potential Damage To NEMA Controllers
- Benefits Of Surge Protection
- Quick Retrofitting Options For NEMA Light Controllers
- Surge Suppressors
- Surge Protective Devices (SPDs)
- How to Choose the Right Surge Protection For NEMA Lighting
- Additional factors to consider when choosing surge protection
- Final Words
Upgrading the existing lighting controllers with NEMA contact relays to improve their resistance to electrical surges is crucial for keeping the systems running for a long time and being reliable.
Imagine entering a room where the lights start blinking by themselves or refuse to turn off at all. Power surges are sudden raises in voltages that greatly damage electronic equipment, causing such dissatisfying scenarios. Yet, NEMA lighting controllers, which are responsible for most commercial and industrial lighting systems today, are easily destroyed by these surges.
Protecting your lighting systems from these irregular voltage surges is very important. Without proper protection, surges can lead to significant damage, resulting in costly repairs and downtime. This guide will help you with the retrofitting process of your existing NEMA Lighting system.
What Is NEMA Standard?
NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturers Association, which is a North American-based international organization that defines the standard interface between lighting fixtures and their controllers.
This ensures compatibility and simplifies installation for various lighting control systems, promoting a uniform and reliable experience.
In simpler terms, NEMA creates a common language for lighting control components, allowing different brands to work together seamlessly. Our focus here is on NEMA lighting controllers, which receive control signals and regulate the power delivered to your lights.
What Are Electrical Surges And Their Potential Damage To NEMA Controllers
Power surges are transient voltage spikes, also known as high peaks of excessive voltage. They occur in the electrical system more rarely than can be imagined. The primary reasons behind their occurrence are sudden lightning strikes, power grid malfunctions, and the need to switch on heavy machinery.
For NEMA lighting controllers, packed with delicate electronic components, these surges can be disastrous. The sudden spike in voltage can overwhelm and damage these components, leading to malfunctions, flickering lights, or complete controller failure. In severe cases, repeated surges can shorten the lifespan of your entire NEMA lighting system.
Benefits Of Surge Protection
Surge protection acts as a shield for your NEMA lighting system. By absorbing or diverting harmful voltage spikes, it safeguards the sensitive electronics inside your controllers. This translates to several benefits:
- Protected from surges, your NEMA controllers will last longer, saving you the cost of frequent replacements.
- With fewer surge-related malfunctions, you’ll experience less downtime and the need for maintenance calls.
- Surge protection ensures your NEMA lighting system functions consistently, preventing unexpected outages and disruptions.
Quick Retrofitting Options For NEMA Light Controllers
We have discussed the power of surges, as well as the weakness of NEMA controllers, and now it is time to see some ways of system augmentation by providing surge protection.
Surge Suppressors
Surge suppressors act as a safety net for your NEMA lighting system. They divert harmful voltage spikes away from your controllers, safeguarding them from damage. Installing surge suppressors is a relatively straightforward process, and you can choose between two options:
Panelboard Installation
- Locate your main electrical panelboard, the central hub for all your building’s circuits.
- Identify a qualified electrician to install a surge suppressor specifically designed for panelboard use.
- This approach offers protection for your entire NEMA lighting system.
Individual Fixture Protection
- Surge suppressors can also be installed directly at each NEMA lighting fixture.
- Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for compatible surge suppressors and proper installation procedures.
- This method provides more targeted protection for specific fixtures.
Even though surge suppressors can provide some level of protection, they might not be able to deal with severe voltage spikes. In the following section, we will consider a more effective remedy for high-risk conditions.
Surge Protective Devices (SPDs)
These highly effective devices can protect the NEMA system from the highest voltages. They provide even more advanced security against sudden power increases than ordinary surge suppressors.
There are different types of SPDs, each suited for varying levels of surge protection. Here’s a simplified breakdown.
- Type 1 SPDs: These are the most powerful surge protectors. They are used in areas with a high probability of lightning strikes or when there are severe power grid disturbances. However, given that they are much more expensive and comparatively more difficult to install, you would find them commonly in large industries.
- Type 2 SPDs: These are a good choice for most commercial and industrial applications. They offer significant protection against common surges while remaining cost-effective.
Due to the potential for electrical hazards, SPDs should be professionally installed by a qualified electrician. This ensures proper connection to the grounding system, a crucial element for safe and effective surge protection.
How to Choose the Right Surge Protection For NEMA Lighting
The decision on whether to equip your NEMA lighting system with surge suppressors or SPDs can sometimes be problematic, but it is essential to have them protected against surges. Below is a table that provides a comparison of these two options.
| Feature | Surge Suppressors | SPDs |
| Cost | More affordable | More expensive |
| Installation | Relatively simple (DIY or electrician) | Requires qualified electrician |
| Surge Handling Capacity | Suitable for moderate surges | Handles larger, more powerful surges |
Additional factors to consider when choosing surge protection
- System Size: Larger NEMA lighting systems may benefit from the increased protection offered by SPDs.
- Budget: Surge suppressors are a more cost-effective option, while SPDs provide superior protection at a higher cost.
- Risk of Severe Surges: If your location experiences frequent lightning strikes or power grid issues, SPDs are a wise investment.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and risk factors. For a more personalized recommendation, consult Chiswear‘s qualified electrician, who can assess your NEMA lighting system and recommend the most suitable surge protection solution.
Final Words
By retrofitting your NEMA interface lighting controllers with proper surge protection, you can significantly extend the life and reliability of your lighting systems. For high-quality surge protection products, consider Chiswear‘s range of reliable and efficient solutions. Our products are designed to offer robust protection, ensuring your lighting systems remain safe and operational.
