Introduction
The Eaton CHSPT2SURGE is a whole-house surge protection device designed for residential applications. As modern homes increasingly rely on sensitive electronics, including appliances, computers, and entertainment systems, the need for reliable power protection becomes critical. Surge events caused by lightning, utility grid switching, and other sources can travel through electrical conductors, potentially damaging electronic devices. The CHSPT2SURGE is engineered to mitigate these risks by offering robust surge suppression at the service entrance.
According to the provided documentation, this device operates at 120/240V, single-phase, and is rated for 36 kA of maximum surge current. It is panel-mountable and features a NEMA 4 rating, making it suitable for environments where protection from water and dust is necessary. This article delves into the key specifications, features, and applications of the CHSPT2SURGE, drawing exclusively from the available source material.
Specifications and Technical Details
The Eaton CHSPT2SURGE is a Type 2 surge protection device (SPD), as defined by the UL 1449 standard. It is designed for installation at the service entrance or distribution panel to protect downstream equipment from transient overvoltages. Below are the key technical specifications derived from the source data:
- Voltage Rating: 120/240 V AC
- Phase: Single-phase
- Interrupt Rating (AC): 36 kA
- Short Circuit Rating: 22,000 kA
- Mounting Type: Panel mount
- Poles: 2
- NEMA Rating: NEMA 4
- Dimensions: 7.5 in (L) x 5 in (W) x 2.53 in (H)
- Weight: 3 lb
- Packaging: 1 unit per package
- UPC: 786685971285
- Manufacturer Part Number: CHSPT2SURGE
The device is manufactured in the United States, as indicated in the source data. It is designed for residential use and is certified under multiple standards, including UL Recognized, UL 1449 (Third Edition), and cUL Certified. These certifications ensure that the device meets industry safety and performance requirements for surge suppression.
Surge Protection and Performance Capabilities
The CHSPT2SURGE provides critical protection against voltage surges that can originate from both internal and external sources. Internal sources include switching of large electrical loads such as air conditioners or refrigerators, while external sources often involve lightning strikes or utility grid fluctuations.
The device is rated for a maximum surge current of 36 kA, which reflects its ability to handle high-energy transients without sustaining damage. Additionally, it has a short circuit rating of 22,000 kA, indicating its capability to safely interrupt extremely high fault currents that may result from electrical failures.
The NEMA 4 rating means the device is protected from water ingress and is suitable for use in environments where it may be exposed to rain, splashing water, or condensation. This is particularly useful in outdoor or semi-outdoor electrical enclosures.
Installation and Mounting Considerations
The CHSPT2SURGE is designed for panel mounting, which requires installation within an electrical panel at the service entrance or a secondary distribution point. As a 2-pole device, it is intended for use in single-phase 120/240V systems, which are common in U.S. residential applications.
The device’s dimensions are relatively compact, making it suitable for installation in standard electrical enclosures without requiring significant space. It measures 7.5 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 2.53 inches in height. These dimensions are important for ensuring compatibility with existing panels and for planning the layout of electrical components.
The source data does not provide explicit installation instructions, such as wiring diagrams or step-by-step procedures. Therefore, users are advised to refer to official Eaton documentation or consult a qualified electrician for proper installation. Given the nature of surge protection devices and their role in electrical safety, improper installation can result in reduced effectiveness or potential hazards.
Application and Use Cases
The CHSPT2SURGE is designed for use in residential buildings, particularly for protecting electronic loads such as appliances, computers, and entertainment systems. As more homes adopt smart devices and networked electronics, the risk of surge damage increases, making whole-house surge protection an essential component of modern electrical systems.
The documentation highlights that the device is suitable for use in environments where sensitive electronics are present. This includes not only traditional appliances but also newer technologies such as home automation systems, smart thermostats, and networked home entertainment devices. By installing the CHSPT2SURGE at the service entrance, homeowners can ensure that all downstream devices receive consistent and clean power, reducing the likelihood of damage from transient surges.
Compatibility and Standards Compliance
The CHSPT2SURGE is certified under several key industry standards, which ensures its compatibility with U.S. electrical systems and compliance with safety regulations. These include:
- UL Recognized: Indicates that the device has been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories for safety and performance.
- UL 1449 (Third Edition): This standard outlines the requirements for surge protective devices used in low-voltage electrical systems. Compliance with this standard ensures that the device meets the necessary criteria for surge suppression and electrical safety.
- cUL Certified: The Canadian version of UL certification, indicating that the device is also suitable for use in Canadian electrical systems.
These certifications are crucial for ensuring that the device can be legally installed and used in residential applications without violating local electrical codes or safety regulations.
Physical and Environmental Considerations
The CHSPT2SURGE is manufactured with durability and environmental resilience in mind. It is designed to withstand the rigors of electrical surges and is built to operate effectively in a range of environmental conditions. The NEMA 4 rating ensures that the device is protected from water ingress, which is particularly important for installations in areas prone to moisture or humidity.
The device’s dimensions and weight are also notable factors in its installation and handling. Weighing 3 pounds and measuring 7.5 inches in length, it is relatively lightweight and compact, making it suitable for installation in standard electrical panels without requiring special accommodations.
Limitations and Status
According to the source data, the CHSPT2SURGE is currently listed as “inactive.” This status could indicate that the product is no longer available for purchase or is being phased out by the manufacturer. Users considering this device for installation should verify its current availability through official Eaton channels or authorized distributors.
The inactivity status may also affect the availability of technical support, installation guides, and replacement parts. In such cases, it is advisable to consult with an Eaton representative or a qualified electrician to explore alternative surge protection solutions that may be more readily available and supported.
Conclusion
The Eaton CHSPT2SURGE is a robust surge protection device designed for residential applications. With a 120/240V rating, 36 kA surge current capacity, and a NEMA 4 rating, it offers comprehensive protection against transient overvoltages that can damage sensitive electronics. The device is panel-mountable and certified under key industry standards, ensuring its reliability and compliance with U.S. electrical safety regulations.
While the source data does not include detailed installation instructions, the device is intended for professional installation by qualified electricians. Users should verify the product's current availability and consider consulting official documentation or technical support for guidance on proper installation and usage.
As surge protection becomes increasingly important in modern homes, devices like the CHSPT2SURGE play a vital role in safeguarding electronic investments. However, due to its inactive status, users may need to explore alternative models or consult with Eaton for updated product recommendations.