Surge Protection

Surge protection devices (SPDs) are board-mounted units that divert transient overvoltages to earth before they can damage connected equipment. We stock Type 2 SPDs from Live Electrical in single module 1P+N and 4 pole 20kA/40kA versions, plus Garo 2 pole Class II surge protectors, including a single module version supplied with earth, neutral and live leads.

Trade pricing applies on account, and in-stock SPDs ordered before 5pm on weekdays arrive the next working day across NI and the Republic.

SA140 1P+N In-Stock

Live Electrical Type 2 Surge Protection Device

£39.60 inc. VAT

GPTT2-300-2-0 In-Stock

GARO Surge Protector 2 Pole Class II

£42.00 inc. VAT

GSPDT2TNCKIT In-Stock

GARO SPD 2 Pole Class II Single Module – c/w Earth, Neutral & Live Cables

£34.34 inc. VAT

SA440 Ships in 3-5 days

Live Electrical 4P 20KA/40KA Type 2 Surge Protection Device

£42.34 inc. VAT

SP1401P+N/1 In-Stock

Type 2 Surge Protection Device Single Module 1P+N, 20KA/40KA

£16.14 inc. VAT

How to choose a surge protection device

Transient overvoltages caused by lightning activity or by switching on the network can damage sensitive electronics and shorten the life of equipment. An SPD in the consumer unit or distribution board limits these spikes.

SPD types explained

Type 1 - designed for direct lightning current, typically at the origin of installations with a lightning protection system.
Type 2 (Class II) - the usual choice in consumer units and distribution boards, protecting against indirect transients.
Type 3 - local protection close to sensitive equipment, used alongside a Type 2 device.

Specifications to check

Poles - 1P+N or 2 pole for single-phase boards; 4 pole for three phase and neutral supplies.
Discharge current - such as 20kA nominal / 40kA maximum.
Width and fit - single module devices save space in compact boards.
Status indicator - a window that shows when the cartridge needs replacing.

Installation tips

Keep the connecting leads as short and straight as practical, as long leads reduce the protection provided. Fit the SPD close to the main switch and connect it through the protective device recommended by the manufacturer. Good earthing is essential, so check the earthing arrangement as part of the job. Current wiring regulations (BS 7671 in the UK) expect surge protection to be considered on most installations, so confirm requirements for each project.

Where SPDs fit

Many of our consumer units have space for an SPD, and our three phase TP&N boards are supplied with a 4 pole surge device already fitted.

We are a family-run wholesaler with 5,000+ products in stock. Delivery is free above £30 / €35 ex VAT, and Click & Collect is available at our Cookstown trade counter.

FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

What is surge protection?: Surge protection is used to protect against power surges. All appliances within your home are vulnerable to power surges which can cause damage to the circuit and to your electronics.
Is surge protection necessary?: Surge protection is not necessary however it is advised. It is strongly recommended for installations in accordance with 18th edition wiring regulations. Surge protection are design to limit the amount of voltage suppled to an electric device. Without a surge protect, a power surge will happen and shorten the life span of your electronics. It is advised to use a surge protector on equipment that would be vulnerable.
What causes surges?: Many different factors can cause electrical surges. A common cause of surge is faulty appliances, faulty wiring, tripped circuit breakers and power line over surges. Surge protection would prevent these issues.
How does surge protection work?: A surge protector has two functions. The first function is the ability to plug into multiple components in the one single power outlet. The second function helps protect the electronic devices from high-voltage power surge.
How long would a surge protection last?: Surge protections would have a life span of three to five years. However, surge protections should be replaced every two years to ensure safe practices and protection your equipment. The live surge protections have flag indications to identify when the surge protection should be replacement:

Green = Good

Red = Replace
What is the difference between Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 surge protection?: Type 1 SPDs handle direct lightning currents at the origin of buildings with lightning protection, Type 2 devices protect distribution boards against indirect transients, and Type 3 units give local protection at sensitive equipment. Most homes and commercial premises use a Type 2 device in the consumer unit, sometimes combined with other types.
What do the 20kA/40kA ratings on an SPD mean?: The first figure is the nominal discharge current, the surge the device can handle repeatedly, and the second is the maximum discharge current it can divert once without failing. A 20kA/40kA Type 2 device is a common specification for consumer units and distribution boards. Check the manufacturer's data for the full ratings.
Where should a surge protection device be fitted in a consumer unit?: A Type 2 SPD is normally fitted in the consumer unit close to the main switch, connected through the protective device the manufacturer recommends. Keep the line, neutral and earth leads short and direct, because long or looped leads reduce its effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and current wiring regulations for the exact arrangement.