What is a Power Conditioner?

Many people may have the idea that electric service to our homes and businesses is reliable and steady, which should give us no cause for concern. This is true in a general sense but there is always room for improvement, even with the power that we use every day. Power conditioners are installed in a system to clean up the alternating current, especially power connected to sensitive electronic devices.
You can buy and install a power conditioner for your home computer, stereo etc. and for business equipment in the office. New units provide protection from surges in power and filter out “noise” that may interfere with the operation of office equipment and home electronics.

Surge Protection and More

People have used stand-alone surge protectors and power strips with surge protection for years. However, they may not have thought much about power conditioners and filters for their electrical systems. But with computer equipment and television images transmitted through cables it’s probably a good idea to give some thought to cleaning up the power by eliminating most or all of the interference that can reduce sound and video quality.

Noise and interference in electrical power may be caused by AC current that fluctuates slightly from the common voltage. Power can also contain some noise if wiring in the home or office isn’t in perfect condition. If another appliance or office machine is connected to the same circuit it may cause static/noise or interference in the power to more sensitive computers and electronic devices.

Power conditioners can reduce or eliminate many of these problems. Some are even designed to eliminate problems that may be caused by lightning during a storm or interference/noise from fluorescent lighting in the same room or building.

Only the Best

While many people won’t notice slight noise or interference when watching television or playing games on a computer, there are many among us who want nothing to do with power that is “dirty.” This noise or static can produce unclear images on TV screens or computer monitors. If there is sufficient interference in the system the noise and static will be amplified and audible in the system’s speakers.

When you are connected to an Internet system you may notice slower speeds when receiving or sending data. Those who use a dial-up Web connection might even be disconnected when there is too much noise or “dirt” in the electrical system.

A good power conditioner uses filters internally to keep some outlets isolated from others. This means that noise on one line won’t cross over to another. Power conditioners reduce noise so the operation of electronic equipment is as clean and efficient as possible. For example, look for noise suppression in the range of 40 decibels and above. Choose power conditioners that also have a good rating for absorbing energy. This ability is measured in joules. When you are using modern computer equipment, stereo systems and other sensitive electronic units, invest a bit more for good power conditioning.