“It’s more than a surge protector,” Robert Moran commented on YouTube. “I will not install an inverter system without a Kool Guard 2.” On the DITEK Surge Protection website, you’ll find another mention of the Kool Guard 2—or KG2—from James, “The KG2 has been such a small investment for a large peace of mind.”

When the KG2 was released from DITEK in 2021, it changed the game in HVAC power protection. A device was needed to properly shield modern HVAC systems from common voltage swings, and the KG2 answered the demand.

What are voltage swings?

Voltage swings are harmful overvoltage and undervoltage events, when the voltage drops below the normal operating level or spikes above it. Most people are familiar with the surges or spikes, but for HVAC systems, undervoltage can be just as damaging. These voltage changes often lead to degradation (or worse) of the components within this vital appliance, affecting its reliability and longevity.

Undervoltage causes include:

• Heavy load conditions: When several electrical devices or high-power equipment operate simultaneously and the demand for electricity exceeds the supply
• Faulty electrical connections: Loose or corroded connections can increase resistance
• Long distribution lines: Resistance in the wires where power needs to travel long distances
• Transformer failures: A malfunction or failure in a transformer that reduces voltage output to connected loads
• Utility supply issues: Issues with the power supply infrastructure (generation or distribution problems)

Overvoltage (power surges and spikes) causes include:

• Switching surges: Sudden changes in load, such as turning large motors or equipment on and off
• Power supply fluctuations: Inconsistent power supply from the grid, often due to generator switching or load balancing issues
• Weather: Direct or nearby lightning strikes

As we’ve witnessed, the technology around us continues to advance at a record-breaking pace, including many of today’s HVAC systems that are smarter than ever. In fact, calling them a “system” hardly seems to capture all the components that ensure proper indoor airflow, temperature, and quality. Each system has become a smart solution that homeowners and businesses rely on every day. To ensure the quality and efficiency of a modern-day HVAC, a protection device is needed that can keep up with contemporary electronics—one that can match the intelligence and monitor voltage swings.
 

Image courtesy of DITEK Surge Protection

How does intelligent voltage monitoring work?

Ideal for high efficiency inverter-driven compressor systems, mini-splits, and ECM motors, the UL-listed KG2 is designed for intelligent monitoring of undervoltage and overvoltage events. It constantly reads the input voltage conditions going to the equipment while surge protection components divert harmful transient voltages away from the equipment. When other abnormal voltage events occur, the KG2 temporarily and safely disconnects power to the system. After three minutes, power is restored and the device resets for continuous monitoring.

Note: intelligent voltage monitors should not be confused with voltage regulators.

Communicating with customers about surge protection and intelligent voltage monitoring

Adding surge protection or intelligent voltage monitoring is like investing in insurance to protect an HVAC system. Every homeowner and business protects their property with various insurance policies and protection plans. Adding the proper HVAC power protection device to prevent unnecessary disruptions and expenses, for both installers and their customers, is a low-cost solution to prevent damage to this valuable asset, ensure uptime, and support customer satisfaction for HVAC professionals.

The DTK-KG2 has been trusted for 5+ years now as the top intelligent voltage monitor and surge protector for HVAC systems, as installers, integrators, and end-users attest to. The key, of course, with the KG2 and all surge protective devices is proactiveness. Reduce downtime, extend equipment life, and increase customer trust with preventative shielding and continued protection.