Originally Posted By: SRoode
 Originally Posted By: Murph
Another issue with grid induced voltage drops is that they often come back up with a bang.


The grid usually comes back at rated voltage, and usually within 30 cycles or 1/2 second.

 Originally Posted By: Murph
Low power can also be damaging to some electrical components just the same as increased power.


I think you mean voltage, not power (if so, I agree!).

The grid provides a potential, or voltage level (your home's loads convert the voltage into power with your house's total impedance) not power. If the voltage spikes (e.g. a strike of lighting) then your equipment can be damaged. A surge suppressor is designed to handle this.

If your voltage sags (e.g. a brownout), then any load that you have that is a constant power output load will draw more current to output it's designed power. This could also damage equipment. I'm not too sure a surge suppressor is really designed for this. Hopefully, your house circuit breaker will.


The few appliances that I have lost (with a bang) when the grid returned to duty around here would politely argue with you on the general assumption that all grids are designed equal within your fist comment. As would an nearby electrical engineer who works for our local utility. However, this may just lend to this particular area where they have almost exclusive control over the outside plant and central distribution.

Notice I didn't say "generation" as our local Island utility only self generates via a diesel plant when cut off from the mainland grid and the Point Lepreau nuclear facility housed there.

In any case, it's not my expertise so you may be right but I'll continue to be wary from my experiences.

As for saying "power" instead of "voltage". You are correct. I fell for the dangers of speaking in generalities when one is not accustomed to speaking about a particular topic very often.

With great power comes Awesome irresponsibility.