[Elecraft] [OT} Whole House Surge Protection

[Erik Basilier]

Gary,

 

My house was built in 1954, 59 years ago. At the old panel (the only one
until I added a new one and new underground wires from the pole), there is
already a protector, a "Stedi Volt" from General Energy Controls, Inc. in
Chambersburg, Pa. It has a red indicator light on it (I have never seen it
lit). Outside at the 3-phase AC unit is another protector of the same kind,
but with 2 lights. (Why not 3? Maybe there was no unit available to
accommodate the high leg?) The plastic lenses of the lights have
deteriorated severely; the label is unreadable and the box is rusted. This
all suggests to me that the protectors are as old as the house, and I have
to assume that the MOV's are used up and useless by now. That has
contributed to my interest in installing a new protector. I wonder though if
I should make an effort to remove those old ones. BTW the old protector by
the A/C was never close to the old panel, but I seem to remember that the
A/C was not fed through the panel at all. Now it is fed through the new
panel which is located several feet from the A/C. Thus the old protector for
the A/C is not very close to the new panel, so even if the old protector
were to be functional, I believe its location does not comply with current
installation guidelines.

 

I am still interested in whether I can find a reasonably priced unit, but
based on your comment I also want to ask my insurance agent what is covered
and pricing for added coverage if applicable.

 

73,

Erik K7TV

 

 

Gary wrote:

 

I've been using them for some 40 years.  A tidbit of info for you.

General Electric units used to cost $30 each.  I was charged over $120 for
the last one I bought.  When I questioned it, I was told that the prices
shot up when the marketing department got hold of the product.

That was many years ago.

 

I paid no attention to the warranty.  I don't expect them to do a thing
about it if there is any damage.  I just bought the best protection I could
afford at the time.  I wouldn't pay today's prices you quote.

Insurance is cheaper.