All electronic devices are generally designed to work within a particular voltage level. They can be damaged, sometimes beyond repair if a voltage fluctuation occurs. So expensive and important electrical appliances like computers, air conditioners, refrigerators and televisions need to be protected from this kind of fluctuation. That is where a voltage regulator or a voltage stabilizer comes in.
Click Here To See The Top Rated Voltage Regulators
A voltage regulator is an electric device that is designed to automatically maintain a constant voltage level. The main purpose of a voltage regulator is to make the voltage supplied by the line or network equal to the voltage supply needed by the electrical devices. In easier words its job is to make sure that your precious electrical appliances do not feel the voltage fluctuations on the main line, thus protecting them from being damaged.
Types and Uses
There are several types of voltage regulators depending on their internal design, how they work, where they can be used, their capacity and many other things. And, instead of plain English, they come in a very hard to understand scientific language which will probably mean only gibberish to you. So let us try to keep it simple and only talk about the things that will matter to you.
Voltage regulators are mainly of two kinds- AC and DC. AC voltage regulators are used with electronic devices that use alternative current usually found in the main line. On the other hand, DC voltage stabilizers are for those devices that use direct current like the one of a battery. For most cases, you need an AC voltage regulator. Sometimes, though DC voltage stabilizers are required too in our everyday life. Apart from those battery powered electronics, DC current is mainly used for electrical devices that need a constant low supply of electricity. Motion sensing outdoor lights, cordless phones and message machines and alarm system are good examples of DC user. For these types of special cases you will need a DC voltage regulator.
There are several other kinds of voltage regulators. Let us just assume that you are not an engineering student. In that case it is better for you to stick to voltage stabilizers specially designed for your particular appliance. For example you may want a stabilizer specially made for refrigerators for your refrigerator.
Purchasing A Voltage Regulator
When you are out shopping for a nice voltage stabilizer for your valuable electronic items, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
The first thing to consider is the capacity of a voltage regulator. It is denoted by VA (Volt-ampere). Usually, you will find the capacity written on the regulator (i.e. 500VA). Now, if you are unsure what capacity is suitable for your electric appliance, here is an easy way to find out. First find out the required voltage (i.e. 220V) and current consumption (i.e. 1000W) of your electronic appliance. They are usually written on the back of electronics. Now multiply these two numbers and take the square root of the product. The result will give you an idea about the required capacity of your voltage regulator. For example, if a refrigerator requires 220V of voltage and 1000W of current, the required regulator capacity will be around 470VA (square root of 220 X 1000). So for this refrigerator it is best to look for a voltage regulator with a capacity of 500VA.
The next thing to consider is the regulator’s ability to handle voltage fluctuations. This particular requirement depends on the area where the regulator is used. You have to know the lowest and the highest voltage in your area and look for a voltage regulator capable of handling such range. For example if the line voltage in your area goes as low as 180V (when most are using more electricity) and goes as high as 250V (usually during midnight) then the regulator that is suitable for your area should have an input voltage range rating of at least 180V to 250V. If you are unsure about the lowest and highest voltage in your area, it is better to consult a local sales representative.
The voltage regulator’s output voltage should be equal to the requirement of your device. If the device requires 220V then the regulator’s output voltage must be 220V.
Another thing to consider is output accuracy. The output voltage of a regulator is seldom exactly as it is specified. It always comes with a tolerance or error. The lesser the tolerance, the more accurate it is. For cost-effective designs and less sensitive applications a regulator with a typical tolerance is acceptable, normally, +/- 10% of the output voltage.
Response time is another important factor for a voltage regulator. Response time of a regulator determines how fast it can cope up with the voltage fluctuations. This parameter is very important especially when fluctuations are extreme and this can determine if a regulator is effective or not for your needs.
There are many types of voltage regulator in the market with lots of extra features added. You may want a wall mounted stabilizer to keep it out of children’s reach or you may want a nice looking one that matches your decor. But, whatever extra feature you opt for you must first check the important factors otherwise buying one could prove pointless and extremely expensive.
Top 3 recommendations
The price of a voltage regulator usually ranges from $30 to $200. Of course the price depends on the regulators capacity, output, response time and other features. Here are a few recommendations that may help you choose your voltage regulator.
OPTI-UPS SS1200 Stabilizer Automatic Voltage Regulator
The OPTI-UPS SS1200 Automatic Voltage Regulator is available at a low price and is a real bargain winner. It shows off a capacity of stunning 1200VA with 6 outlets available. That means you can use it for several small electronics like light, fan, mobile chargers etc. or a single device like computer, television, home theatre etc.
APC LE1200 Line-R 1200VA Automatic Voltage Regulator
The APC LE1200 Automatic Voltage Regulator comes in with a $50 price tag. This is probably the best solution for your computer, plasma TV or home theatre. It will protect your devices from fluctuations as low as 100V to as high as 140V. This requires stating that its output voltage is 120V.
3000 WATT Automatic Voltage Regulator
The 3000 WATT Automatic Voltage Regulator is perfect if you are looking for the ultimate regulator for your devices than this automatic voltage regulator is the best option for you. It has twin input and twin output. This means it doesn’t matter whether you need 120V or 220V, this giant will work for you anyway. At only +/- 2% tolerance level this regulator ensures you maximum protection. Of course, all these come with high price rate of $150.
Conclusion
A voltage regulator protects your most important electronics from harmful fluctuations. So make no mistakes while choosing the right regulator for you. A wrong decision may cost you dearly.