Voltage Stabilizer or Automatic Voltage Regulator

What is a Stabilizer or Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)?

A Stabilizer or Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) is a device that maintains a constant and stable voltage level, protecting against electrical issues such as voltage drops or surges. A stabilizer adjusts the current voltage to the appropriate level and smoothens the power supply, allowing connected devices to operate at full efficiency. Consistent current flow not only ensures efficient operation of the equipment but also reduces the rate of damage caused by electrical problems, thereby extending the lifespan of the devices. It is suitable for equipment that needs to operate continuously, such as servers, telephone exchange systems, medical equipment, scientific instruments, industrial machinery, and can be used with many other types of devices as needed.

Choosing an Automatic Voltage Regulator Size

1. List the electrical devices that will be connected to the voltage regulator.
2. Each device will have a nameplate indicating the required voltage (V) and current (A), or some devices will show wattage (W).
3. Sum up the wattage (W) of all electrical devices to be connected to the voltage regulator.
4. Choose a voltage regulator that has a higher wattage capacity than the total wattage of all devices.

For example:

• A 3KVA voltage regulator supports up to 2400W
• A 5KVA voltage regulator supports up to 4000W
• An 8KVA voltage regulator supports up to 6400W
• A 10KVA voltage regulator supports up to 8000W
• A 20KVA voltage regulator supports up to 16000W
• A 30KVA voltage regulator supports up to 24000W

Example Calculation:

To find the suitable voltage regulator size for an air conditioner of 9000btu, a fan of 60W, a rice cooker of 1240W, and 10 light bulbs of 28W:

• Air conditioner (9000x0.263) = 2,367W
• Fan (60)x30% = 78W
• Rice cooker =1240W
• Light bulbs 28x10 = 280W
• Total W = 2367+78+1240+280 = 3965W

Therefore, the safe size of the voltage regulator for the mentioned electrical devices would be 4000W or above, or an 8Kva 6400W voltage regulator.

Voltage Drop Definition: The term "voltage drop" is commonly used to refer to a decrease in electrical voltage, or what we understand as "220 volts". In reality, 1-phase electricity is specified as 230V by the electrical authority, which allows a normal voltage drop of not more than 5% or 220V.

Causes of Voltage Drop:

• Increased number of houses in an area competing for electricity
• Long distance from the power source
• Occurs before a power outage
• Heavy rainfall
• High energy usage in the house, such as using a water heater, air conditioning, or devices with high-rotation motors like water pumps

Signs of Voltage Drop in Your Home:

• Difficulty in turning on lights, or they flicker frequently
• Lights shine less brightly
• Water pumps or high-rotation motor devices fail to operate, requiring immediate shutdown or unplugging to prevent damage and fire risk
• Air conditioning fails to operate, only blowing air

Solutions:

• For long-term voltage drops: Notify the electric utility responsible for your area.
• For short-term voltage drops: Use an Automatic Voltage Regulator or Stabilizer to prevent voltage drops or surges, especially for important and expensive equipment.