A phase protector is an electronic device commonly used with large motors in HVAC systems to prevent damage from power supply issues. Thanks to advances in semiconductor technology, phase protectors reliably and effectively protect expensive fan motors and compressors.
How Phase Protectors Work
A phase protector monitors the three-phase power feeding your HVAC motor. It continually checks for low or high voltage, phase loss, phase reversal, and voltage imbalance.
If any of these occur, the protector acts like an automatic cutoff switch to immediately stop power to the motor and prevent damage until you can have an HVAC system inspection performed.
Phase protectors have indicators and alarms to notify you or technicians of problems, preventing costly downtime and repairs.
Key Features to Consider
Here are some key features to consider when selecting a phase protector:
Adjustable voltage range to match your motor’s needs
Phase loss detection to prevent single-phasing
Phase reversal protection
Protection from undervoltage and overvoltage conditions
Time delay to prevent restarting too quickly
Voltage imbalance protection
Typical Applications
Phase protectors are standard equipment for the motors in these HVAC systems:
- Air compressors like reciprocating, rotary, and centrifugal types are used to power equipment
- Chillers that cool the water circulated to air handlers
- Cooling towers that discharge heat from chillers
- Large commercial air handlers that distribute conditioned air
- Water circulation pumps
Integration With Motor Controls
Phase protectors are installed alongside motor starters and drives. They connect to the power feeding these controls. When a problem is detected, the protector contacts disconnect power to stop the motor. A reset button allows reconnecting after the issue is fixed.
Many modern motor controllers have built-in phase protection. Check if yours includes it before adding an external protector.
So Are Phase Protectors Worth It?
For home HVAC systems with large motors, phase protectors provide valuable protection. They prevent expensive damage to air compressors, chillers, pumps, and other equipment from power issues.
Without phase protection, problems like low voltage, phase reversal, or voltage imbalance can quickly ruin motor windings. Replacing these motors costs far more than adding preventive protection. Phase protectors have also significantly improved thanks to digital designs.
Phase protectors reduce downtime by immediately shutting down your motor when trouble is detected, preventing waiting for the damage to happen before repairs are needed. With their reliability, phase protectors are a wise investment for your home’s HVAC system.
FAQs About Phase Protectors
Where are phase protectors installed?
They connect to the incoming power before it reaches motor starters or drives, allowing monitoring of the raw power.
What is the typical price range?
Basic units start around $200, but more full-featured protectors run $600 to $1,000, depending on amp rating and features.
How are phase protectors reset after tripping?
You push an external push button to reconnect power.
Can protectors be added to existing HVAC systems?
Yes, you can integrate protectors by disconnecting and rewiring the power and motor leads through the protector.
Do they prevent all power problems?
Phase protectors mainly guard against multiphase faults. You’ll need additional surge protection for transients and spikes.