Voltage fluctuation is something we don’t have control over. Unfortunately, a spike in the voltage can destroy your household electrical appliances and cause permanent damage. A voltage stabilizer is a must-have in your home if you don’t want your TV damaged, but with the different brands in the market, how do you choose the right stabilizer for your LED TV?
To choose a stabilizer for your LED TV, you’ll need to check the device’s current and power rating, determine if it has overload protection, look at the winding material, and find out what salient features the stabilizer comes with.
In this article, we will give you some tips on how to choose a stabilizer for your LED TV. To learn more about what a voltage stabilizer is and what it does, read on.
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The Importance of a Stabilizer for Your LED TV
Constant voltage fluctuations can damage your LED TV and other home appliances. Getting a voltage stabilizer is critical to protecting your TV and ensuring that you can use it for the long term.
You may find it overwhelming to choose a stabilizer if this is your first time buying one. Fortunately, we’ve done the homework for you, and here are tips to help you decide on a stabilizer for your TV:
Determine the Stabilizer Working Range
One of the first things you should know before buying a stabilizer is determining the input voltage range you have at home. In the United States, the recommended input is 120 V. After this; you need to buy a stabilizer within the stated range.
To get the maximum power, you’ll need to multiply 120 by the max rated current of the TV you’re connecting to the stabilizer. You’ll also need to add a 25% safety margin to get at the stabilizer rating. You can keep a buffer for any additional devices you may want to add to the stabilizer.
If you get a stabilizer within the range of 114 V-126 V, the stabilizer will turn off the current supply when the voltage goes below 114 V or above 126 V. You can be sure the device will prevent the current from passing to your TV.
If the voltage is within the operating range, the stabilizer works on regulating the input voltage and sets it to the desired output range. Check the power rating, current, and voltage of the stabilizer.
You also need to consider the surge current that flows when you switch on the stabilizer. If you find the voltage stabilizer has its rating in watts, you need to assume a power factor of 0.8.
Another thing to note is that if you’re planning to connect another appliance to the stabilizer, you’re better off buying a mainline stabilizer. All you need is to install the stabilizer between the home’s main power supply and other appliances. The stabilizer smoothes out the voltage fluctuations from the main power supply to offer a constant electric supply.
When looking at each appliance’s ratings, you need to check the screen size in inches for TV. Stabilizer capacity is measured in kVA, AMPs, or VA. Don’t worry about getting the accurate power consumption of your TV as most units have specifications that indicate suitability based on the size of the screen.
Calculating the Nature of the Load
The nature of the load connected to the stabilizer is a crucial aspect that should not be ignored. You need to note the power for the LED TV that will be connected to the stabilizer. The total power consumption or watts will give you the load on the stabilizer.
You’ll find that most stabilizers are rated in VA or kVA, which is the equivalent of 1000 VA. If you got the watts’ load, you could increase the value by 20% to get the VA size that you need. Twenty percent works for most residential systems.
What You Should Know About the Stabilizer Working Range
Stabilizers have different working ranges: the voltage range in which the device operates the input utility voltage and gives the desired output voltage. You need to choose a stabilizer that fits the voltage fluctuations and spikes in your home.
Check the Overload Protection
When buying a stabilizer for your LED TV, you need to find one with overload protection. The feature is essential as it cuts off the stabilizer output when there is an overload in the central utility voltage or an unexpected short circuit. You can be sure your TV is protected from the high voltage outside of the TV’s performance range.
Stabilizers with overload protection have protective circuits that prevent overloading by the regulator in the stabilizer or inhibit voltage stabilization when the load current exceeds the upper limit.
Some models may require you to manually reset the stabilizer to put it back to action when the load current goes above specified limits.
Choose the Preferred Cabinet Material
The cabinet material helps protect the stabilizers’ electric circuit, ensuring the unit works accurately and effectively without any external interference. Common materials include sheet metal, plastic, and ABS. You’ll find that most stabilizers are made from ABS and plastics.
The plastic is a non-conductive material, which means it offers corrosion-free and shock-proof features. Moreover, plastic is water-resistant and highly durable. On the other hand, ABS is famous for its electrical insulation properties and toughness.
Find Out the Mounting Options
Mounting is not a big deal when picking a stabilizer for your TV. However, if you have areas around the TV that may get wet, you need to look at the mounting options. Find a location that will protect your stabilizer from moisture, heat, and kids. Some voltage stabilizers have a wall-mountable design that makes it easier to attach it to the wall.
Wall mounting protects your children from the risk of electrical shock and prevents any accidental damage that may occur.
Look Out for LED Indicators
Another feature you need to look out for in a stabilizer is the LED indicators. These indicators have the function of displaying the input/output voltage. You can also track the voltage fluctuation levels and check the performance of the stabilizer and appliances. Digital models are more reliable and accurate. They are also adapted to the load connected.
Find a Stabilizer With Surge Protection
Apart from overload protection, it’s essential to find a stabilizer with surge protection for your TV. That feature helps to safeguard your appliance from sudden voltage rise when there is a short circuit or lightning strikes.
Don’t Forget the Time Delay System
A short power outage of fewer than ten seconds can cause the compressor to lock up. When this happens, the motor takes up a strong current, which means the compressor also becomes hot. The problem is that the over-temperature protection system can shut down the power supply, leading to the tripping compressor.
The stabilizer needs a time-lapse during a small power cut-off. That ensures the balancing of the flow of current that aids in operations without any interruptions. The power-on delay function waits for the time delay completion as the power outage disturbs the compressor’s functionality.
Find Out if the Model Comes With a Warranty
Most stabilizer manufacturers provide a warranty period of three to five years to guarantee protection to your TV. Choose a stabilizer that comes with a warranty of at least a year as this shows that the manufacturer is sure of the product’s quality.
Decide on the Winding Material
The winding material contributes to conductivity, which makes it a critical aspect when evaluating the different stabilizers. Aluminum or copper is commonly used as these materials are good conductors of electricity. With that, less heat is generated, and there’s a reduction in power loss, leading to a better power factor.
Note that the aluminum rating is less than copper. That means the cross-sectional part of the winding needs to be increased to get equal ratings. Small amounts of copper are better than aluminum.
Check the Load Capacity
You should also consider the amount of load you intend to connect with the stabilizer. You’ll need to note the amount of power for the appliances you intend to communicate with the stabilizer. The total energy used by these appliances will give you the load of the stabilizer in watts.
Check the Presence of Input-Output Circuit Breaker
Apart from overload protection, the right stabilizer needs to have an input/output circuit breaker. The function provides current protection and trips if the input/output goes below or above a predetermined level. You’ll find that some models come with input circuit breakers as standard, while in others, it comes as an option.
Consider a Bypass Facility
A bypass switch makes the inspection and maintenance possible by connecting the load directly to the main supply and isolating the voltage stabilizer. A few models come standard with a built-in bypass facility, while others will need to be fitted with wall mountable external switches to function.
Check the Noise Levels of the Stabilizer
Another often overlooked feature is the noise level of a stabilizer. Some models produce a humming sound that comes from the transformer, which can be distracting. You can read reviews to find out more about a particular stabilizer’s ability to handle noise levels before purchasing.
Consider the Cost of the Stabilizer
The other factor you need to consider is the cost of the voltage stabilizer. The prices of the stabilizers are dependent on their interior parts. You need to have a budget and determine how much you need to spend to get the device. Most stabilizers are affordable and can withstand little to no fluctuations.
Determine the Adjustability of the TV Stabilizers
Some manufacturers design TV stabilizers that are adjustable to different appliances or equipment. A stabilizer that can be used for more than one device is versatile and gives you more options. Digitized TV stabilizers are versatile and provide accurate information.
You need to find a stabilizer that best fits your space. If you have little to no room on the floor, you can consider getting a wall mounting as the installation process is simpler and faster.
Everything You Should Know About Voltage Stabilizers
Have you ever wondered how stabilizers work? Here’s what you need to know about voltage stabilizers, how they work, and what makes them unique:
What Is a Voltage Stabilizer and What Does It Do?
Stabilizers are also known as safe voltage regulators. They stabilize your utility voltage before feeding the power to the connected equipment.
A stabilizer controls voltage fluctuations that get into your electrical equipment like TVs. It acts as a safeguard between the equipment and utility by continuously checking and stabilizing voltage changes. A stabilizer’s work ensures that your electrical appliance gets a consistent stabilized range of voltage to ensure long operational life and trouble-free operation.
How Does a Voltage Stabilizer Protect Your TV?
Stabilizers come with electronic circuitry that changes with the required taps of a built-in auto-transformer through quality electromagnetic relays to generate the needed voltage.
In case the voltage supplied is not within the specified range, there’s a mechanism that switches the required transformer tap, thus bringing the voltage supply within a safe range.
The stabilizer identifies any power fluctuations and regulates it to provide a uniform range of output voltage to the TV. Stabilizers also use auto-transformers with auto-tap changers to control the voltage output. A unit with a high operational capacity translates into significant winding numbers on the transformer, resulting in a more massive and costly stabilizer.
Do Latest TVs Have Inbuilt Voltage Stabilization?
Modern TVs have OLED, QLED, and LED panels, which means they are slimmer and do not have enough room to accommodate stabilizer circuits. Modern TVs don’t need a stabilizer to work, but it’s essential to get one if you experience a sudden spike in electrical current and power surges.
The latest TVs have a wide operating voltage range between 90V-190V. Note that this may be different depending on the screen size and brand.
You may opt not to install a stabilizer for your TV if your model has a wide voltage range and low fluctuation. It’s also recommended to get a stabilizer designed for LED TVs as they tend to be delicate towards voltage spikes and fluctuations. The right stabilizer not only enhances the TV’s performance but also ensures that it’s durable.
The Difference Between a Voltage Stabilizer and Voltage Regulator
Although a voltage regulator sounds similar to a voltage stabilizer, they are different devices. They both stabilize the voltage but vary in how they do it.
The voltage regulator delivers constant voltage to the output without any load current change, while voltage stabilizers provide stable voltage to the output without any incoming voltage changes.
Where Should You Install a Stabilizer for an LED TV?
The position that you place the stabilizer is crucial. That’s because the stabilizer has electric power running through it, and you don’t want to expose your kids or pets to an electrical shock. It’s recommended to install a voltage stabilizer above the floor level. Ensure that there’s a safe distance of the stabilizer from children, water, or another working current line. The best place is to have it wall mounted.
What Are Voltage Fluctuations and Can They Destroy Your TV?
In the U.S., the recommended input voltage should be 120V and within a range of 114V and 126V. When the input voltage drops below 114V or rises above 126V, this is known as voltage fluctuation.
A circuit breaker helps protect the electrical circuit from any damage that may occur due to a short circuit or current overload. That’s why most homes come with pre-installed circuit breakers as the circuit trips off and prevents the TV from getting damaged.
You may not experience a surge in voltage when the current supply is restored. A low voltage can damage the appliance. That applies to the electrical appliances that have compressors or motors. Installing a voltage stabilizer makes sure that the current goes through the stabilizer and is fed to the device.
Did you ever wonder what causes voltage fluctuations? Voltage fluctuations can occur due to different reasons. However, the main reason for a change is the primary grid input supply. Improper wiring or inadequate earthing can also cause voltage fluctuations.
Some people may experience voltage fluctuation when they switch on high-powered appliances like pump sets, ACs, or electric motors. Most fluctuations also happen due to overloading.
FAQs on Voltage Stabilizers
Some commonly asked questions about stabilizers include:
What Is the Electricity Consumption of Voltage Stabilizers?
A voltage stabilizer’s electricity consumption depends on its efficiency, with most being 95% efficient. Most stabilizers consume close to 4% of the maximum load. That means if you have a 1,000 VA stabilizer, it can consume approximately 40-50W on peak load. If you have this stabilizer working for 10 hours, it will consume close to 0.4 units of electricity.
Leaving the stabilizer on for long hours will consume a lot of electricity, which is why you should avoid using a mainline stabilizer and instead opt for a voltage stabilizer to minimize the impact on your utility bill.
What Are the Components of a Voltage Stabilizer?
A voltage stabilizer consists of electronic circuitry, transformer, and relays. When the stabilizer recognizes a drop in incoming voltage, it allows the electromagnetic relay to add extra voltage to compensate for the lost voltage. When the incoming voltage is higher than the recommended value, the stabilizer activates an electromagnetic relay to reduce the voltage and take it to the standard voltage value.
What Does the Cut-Off Value of a Stabilizer Mean?
Stabilizers are meant to operate at a specific voltage range. That means if the input voltage range goes out of the operating range, then the stabilizer cuts off the supply output automatically to keep your equipment safe.
A good example is when your stabilizer has an operating range of 120V to 260V. It means 120V is the lower cut-off value, while 260V is the higher cut-off value for the stabilizer.
Why Is My Stabilizer Making Noise?
Stabilizers tend to make two types of sound, one can be a crackling sound, and the other can be a humming noise. The cracking sound comes from a short circuit, or it can happen when there is a grounding of wires inside the stabilizer. The humming sound can be produced by the transformer inside.
While a humming sound is typical, a cracking sound will need to be checked by an expert as it not only increases the likelihood of a fire hazard but could also destroy the internal parts of a stabilizer.
Are There Different Stabilizers?
Yes, there are different stabilizers for various appliances. Voltage stabilizers are designed based on the appliance they are engineered for. These units are also categorized based on the features of the specific appliance and the energy limit. Note that every house appliance has an energy limit. These are the limits that engineers use to create different stabilizers.
The common stabilizers include stabilizers for refrigerators, stabilizers for air conditioners, digital stabilizers for LED TVs, stabilizers for washing machines, stabilizers for CRT, and mainline stabilizers.
Automatic voltage stabilizers are used on oil rigs, generator sets, emergency power supply, etc. The device provides variable voltage, which can be done without changing the phase shift or power factor. You’ll find that most large-sized stabilizers are fixed on the distributed lines permanently.
Is There a Difference Between a Voltage Stabilizer and an Inverter?
An inverter converts direct current into alternating current, allowing the electrical appliances to work even without power. Inverters also come with a battery that will enable you to store electricity.
This electricity is used in case of a power cut. However, a voltage stabilizer doesn’t work as an inverter. Its function is to stabilize the input current and ensure that the appliance attached to it gets electricity within the preset voltage range. The stabilizer stops working if there is a power outage or a power cut.
Will a Stabilizer Save Electricity?
A voltage stabilizer is not designed to save electricity but control the voltage fluctuation and protect the appliance against damage caused by these electrical spikes. While it could save some power, it’s not one of the features you should look for when choosing a stabilizer.
Why Do Stabilizers Have Time Delay Output?
You’ll notice that when you power on the input to your stabilizer, it energizes automatically. However, some stabilizers designed for heavy loads will have a time delay function in their output.
That means that the stabilizer’s output energizes after a time delay can be one to two minutes. The time delay output feature is intended to ensure your equipment’s safety if you experience frequent voltage fluctuations in your locations.
Can a Voltage Stabilizer Be Repaired?
Yes, a stabilizer can be repaired. Sometimes some problems are minor and can be resolved with the help of an instruction manual. However, you should leave the work of repairs to a reliable and trusted technician.
Can I Use a TV Stabilizer for Other Devices?
Unfortunately, you can’t use the same stabilizer for all devices. A good example is a stabilizer designed for an AC that cannot be used in the refrigerator, and vice versa. Also, an air conditioner stabilizer will need features like thermal overload and a time delay system that may not be necessary for a refrigerator stabilizer.
Why Does My Stabilizer Show a Red Light With No Output Voltage?
A stabilizer that shows red light without output voltage indicates that the stabilizer’s input voltage is out of the operating range, which means the stabilizer is in cut-off mode. If this happens, it’s recommended to check the voltage in your home and wait until it returns to the standard operating range.
Suppose you notice that the voltage is always out of the operating range of the stabilizer. In that case, you may need to get a stabilizer and get one with a wide operating range that accommodates the voltage at your place.
Should I Use a CRT TV Stabilizer for My LED TV?
You should not use a voltage stabilizer designed for a CRT TV on your LED TV. Moreover, LED TVs have a different working range from CRT TVs. Note that LED TVs are delicate towards voltage spikes and fluctuations, which is why you need to choose a stabilizer designed for a LED TV.
A stabilizer designed for LED TVs will make your TV more durable and enhance the performance of your TV.
Is There a Difference Between a One-Phased Stabilizer and a Three-Phased Stabilizer?
There are different phased stabilizers. A one-phased stabilizer works well for residential use. It enables a fixed amount of power input, which means you can use it with a small refrigerator, lights/fans, and a TV. Nonetheless, if you need to stabilize an entire house, you should get a three-phased stabilizer. A three-phased stabilizer is ideal if you are using a TV, water heater, and other high-energy appliances.
Final Thoughts
Modern stabilizers for LED TVs have advanced and reliable technology designed to safeguard your television from voltage spikes and fluctuations.
Remember to check the stabilizer’s working range, overload protection, mounting options, and if it comes with a warranty. Pick the best choice for using these parameters. The right stabilizer will protect your unit from damage caused by fluctuation and protect your children from electrical shock.
