In the realm of electrical safety, the importance of reliable surge protection cannot be overstated. Among the myriad options available, the Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Surge Protection emerges as a noteworthy contender. This review aims to provide a comprehensive look at this product, examining not only its technical specifications but also its real-world applicability and performance.

How does it fare in terms of build quality? Is its surge capacity sufficient for modern homes with a plethora of electronic devices? And most importantly, does it offer value for its price point? By the end of this exploration, we aspire to give you a clear picture of whether the Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA truly stands out in the crowded landscape of surge protectors.

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of this device, dissecting its features and evaluating its merits.

Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Surge Protection Review

Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Type 2 – Benefits & Features

Capacity to withstand surge current in the event of an overload (MSCC)

To ensure the protection of your whole house against surges, you need at least 30kA (30,000 amps). Surge suppressors are most commonly found in 30kA capacities, which are well within the IEEE guidelines. CHSPT2ULTRA by Eaton is by far more powerful than that requirement, boasting 108kA. This device would probably be more potent than most offered in the market if it had surge capacity.

Protection methods

Several brands offer different modes of surge protection, so keep an eye out when looking for surge protection devices. Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA meets all the below requirements for comprehensive surge protection.

The Line to Neutral function (L-N)

  • A line to ground (L-G).
  • The line to Line (L-L).
  • It stands for Neutral to Ground (N-G).

The Schneider Electric model Square D HEPD80 is equipped with all the above protection modes.

Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR)

The 22kA SCCR that comes with the CHSPT2ULTRA is decent considering that the short circuit current is seldom as high as that emitted by power spikes. Thus, having a 22kA is already well above the average for other brands.

Voltage Clamping

After a surge protection device has blocked a power surge, clamping voltage is the residual voltage that can pass through it. As you can see from Eaton’s VPR, it is apparent that Eaton is more capable of handling power surges than other brands.

L-N: 600V
L-G: 600V
L-L: 1000V
N-G: 800V

Enclosures of type 4 NEMA

For electrical enclosures, NEMA Type 4 is a good standard. In addition to keeping dirt, water, and other substances out, they are great for use indoors and outdoors.

Chspt2ultra vs Chspt2surge

The CHSPT2ULTRA and CHSPT2SURGE are both whole-house surge protectors from Eaton. The main difference between the two is the amount of surge protection they offer. The CHSPT2ULTRA has a 108,000 amp surge rating, while the CHSPT2SURGE has a 36,000 amp surge rating. This means that the CHSPT2ULTRA is better at protecting your home from large surges of power, such as those caused by lightning strikes.

The CHSPT2ULTRA also has a higher joule rating than the CHSPT2SURGE. Joules are a measure of the amount of energy that a surge protector can absorb before it fails. The CHSPT2ULTRA has a 2400 joule rating, while the CHSPT2SURGE has a 1200 joule rating. This means that the CHSPT2ULTRA can handle more energy before it fails.

The CHSPT2ULTRA also has a few other features that the CHSPT2SURGE does not have. These features include:

  • A built-in circuit breaker
  • A LED indicator that shows the status of the surge protector
  • A thermal shutdown feature that protects the surge protector from overheating

The CHSPT2ULTRA is a more expensive option than the CHSPT2SURGE, but it offers better protection for your home. If you are concerned about protecting your home from large surges of power, then the CHSPT2ULTRA is the better choice.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the CHSPT2ULTRA and CHSPT2SURGE:

Feature CHSPT2ULTRA CHSPT2SURGE
Surge rating 108,000 amps 36,000 amps
Joule rating 2400 joules 1200 joules
Features Built-in circuit breaker, LED indicator, thermal shutdown None
Price More expensive Less expensive

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for the best possible protection for your home from large surges of power, then the CHSPT2ULTRA is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget, then the CHSPT2SURGE is still a good option.

FAQs on Eaton chspt2ultra Ultimate Surge Protection

What is Type 1 Type 2 and Type 3 surge protection?

Type 1 SPD (Service Entrance Protection):

  • Location: These are installed at the primary power feed, usually before the main breaker. They’re directly connected to the main service equipment.
  • Purpose: To handle high-energy surges, often originating from external sources like direct lightning strikes or power line issues.
  • Usage: They are typically used in commercial and industrial settings and are suitable for direct lightning current applications.

Type 2 SPD (Branch Level Protection):

  • Location: These are installed after the main breaker, usually at the distribution or branch panels.
  • Purpose: To address surges that pass through or originate from inside the building. This could be from major electrical appliances cycling on and off or other internal electrical disturbances.
  • Usage: Common in both residential and commercial settings, providing a secondary level of protection against both external and internal surge sources.

Type 3 SPD (Point of Use):

  • Location: At the point of use, typically very close to or integrated into the electrical devices they’re protecting. Examples include surge protection power strips or surge protectors directly plugged into outlets.
  • Purpose: To handle surges that make it past Type 1 or Type 2 protectors, providing a final line of defense right at the device. They offer protection from surges coming down the line as well as from surges generated within the building.
  • Usage: Typically used for sensitive electronic equipment, computers, entertainment systems, and other household or office devices.

For the most effective protection, it’s recommended to have a layered approach, integrating multiple types of surge protection devices. This ensures that larger surges are mitigated at the primary entry point, and any residual or internally generated surges are further addressed at the branch or device level.

Is Type 1 SPD better than Type 2?

  • Type 1 SPD: It is designed to be placed at the service entrance and is intended to handle very high-energy surges, like those from direct lightning strikes. It provides the first line of defense against external surges.
  • Type 2 SPD: It is meant for installation at the distribution or branch panel and handles surges that might get past a Type 1 device, or surges originating inside the building, like those from large appliances turning on and off.
  • Comparison: One isn’t “better” than the other; they serve different roles. For comprehensive protection, a combination of both types can be used. A Type 1 device offers the first line of defense at the service entrance, while a Type 2 provides additional protection downstream at the panel or equipment level.

Does Type 2 SPD need MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker)?

Yes, in many installations, a Type 2 SPD will be connected via an MCB. The MCB serves several purposes:

  • Protection: It ensures the SPD doesn’t carry current during normal operations, which can be harmful to the device and decrease its lifespan.
  • Isolation: If there’s an issue with the SPD, the MCB can isolate it from the rest of the system.
  • Easy Disconnection: If maintenance or replacement is needed, the MCB provides a quick means to disconnect the SPD.

The specific requirement for an MCB with a Type 2 SPD might vary based on local regulations, the design of the specific SPD, and the recommendations of the manufacturer.

Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA – Is it for everyone?

Surge protection that protects only the walls of the house is not necessary for those who do not need that. Surge suppression devices of type 2 will require people with some electrical knowledge so that they can hardwire them into their breakers. If you cannot handle the job yourself, hire a certified electrician.

Review of Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA 109420 Whole House Surge Protector

Its features are almost incomparable with those of any other whole house surge protector, which has been approved by UL. CHSPT2ULTRA is the best surge suppressor you can purchase from Eaton if your goal is to protect all your electrical appliances from surges. Add-on modules have their benefits as well as subjective customer support.

What We Like

  • Suitable for any load center brand.
  • Compact in size and light in weight.
  • Reliable and improved performance.
  • Type 4 enclosures (indoors and outdoors) NEMA.
  • The 108kA surge rating is excellent.
  • LED status indicator that is easy to understand.
  • The capacity to handle maximum surge currents (MSCC) is impressive.
  • Four Complete Protection Modes.
  • Guaranteed for life.

What We Don’t Like

  • Add-on modules for phones and cables are required.
  • Support for customers could be improved.

Conclusion

In particular, if you experience frequent surges in your area, I recommend the Eaton Whole House Surge Protector. You’ll have peace of mind with its warranty and guarantee.