Struggling with protecting your home electronics from power surges and spikes?
In this blog, we thoroughly review the Eaton CHSPT2Ultra, a whole-home surge protector that has been highly regarded for its robust protection capabilities. Designed for homeowners seeking to safeguard their electrical devices from unpredictable power surges, this device stands out for its high surge protection ratings and ease of installation. We explore its features, including its performance in various electrical scenarios, durability, and compatibility with home electrical systems, as well as how it compares with other surge protectors on the market.
With over 20 years of experience in electrical safety and home protection technology, we’ve assisted countless homeowners and professionals in choosing effective surge protection solutions. Our hands-on testing of the Eaton CHSPT2Ultra in real-world home environments has revealed its efficacy in providing comprehensive surge protection.
This device isn’t just about preventing damage; it excels in offering peace of mind with its reliable and continuous protection against electrical surges. We’ve evaluated it for its surge suppression capabilities, build quality, and installation process, finding it to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality surge protector that ensures the safety and longevity of their home electronics and appliances.
Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Surge Protection Review
To ensure the protection of your whole house against surges, you need at least 30 kA (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 108 kA. This device would probably be more potent than most offered on the market if it had surge capacity. 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 Schneider Electric model Square D HEPD80 is equipped with all the above protection modes. 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. After a surge protection device has blocked a power surge, the 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 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.Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Type 2: Benefits & Features
Capacity to withstand surge current in the event of an overload (MSCC)
Protection methods
The Line-to-Neutral function (L-N)
Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR)
Voltage Clamping
L-G: 600V
L-L: 1000V
N-G: 800VEnclosures of type 4 NEMA
Chspt2ultra vs. Chspt2 Surge
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 Chspt2 Ultra 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 it. 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 that 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.
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.
