What is the primary purpose of a transient voltage surge suppressor?

The primary purpose of a transient voltage surge suppressor (TVSS) is to protect against voltage spikes. Voltage spikes are sudden increases in voltage that can occur due to various factors, such as lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the power supply. These spikes can cause significant damage to electrical equipment, electronics, and appliances connected to the power supply by exceeding their voltage tolerance levels.

A transient voltage surge suppressor works by detecting these spikes and diverting the excess voltage to the ground, thus preventing it from reaching the sensitive components of electrical devices. This protective mechanism is crucial for maintaining the integrity and longevity of electrical systems in residential and commercial settings.

Other potential options, such as increasing voltage to appliances, protecting against overcurrent, or reducing electrical noise, do not accurately describe the function of a transient voltage surge suppressor. Those tasks are associated with different devices or systems within electrical infrastructure. By focusing solely on the role of a TVSS, it's clear that the effective containment and management of voltage spikes is its essential purpose.