Overview

Surge protection devices are a critical component for protecting sensitive electronic devices from damaging voltage surges. Surge protective devices work by diverting over voltages to ground. Effectively, the internal components of the surge protector absorb the surge. Due to the nature of this absorption, eventually the surge suppression mechanism becomes incapable of further absorption. This means that surge protective devices (SPDs) have a limited life, and can fail prematurely depending on the magnitude of any absorbed surges. The 2023 NEC addresses this inevitable end-of-life for surge protective devices in Section 242.2, which prohibits the reconditioning of SPDs, and in Section 242.9, which covers new requirements specifying SPDs must include an indication that the device is working properly.

Applying the 2023 Code

When surge protective devices (SPDs) are worn out, or simply fail, it is generally a specific internal component that fails. So, when an SPD fails, why not just replace the failed component? The problem with this logic is that it is unknown what size and magnitude of surge the SPD has encountered. A large enough surge could damage other components within the SPD, which would make effectively reconditioning the SPD nearly impossible to accomplish with a 100% success rate. Because of this, the 2023 NEC has added Section 242.2, which prohibits the reconditioning of surge protective devices. Additionally, the 2023 NEC requires that all SPDs include an indication that the device is working properly. This indication will display the status of the SPD, and indicate when the SPD has failed. This will make it easier for electricians, building occupants, and any authorities having jurisdiction to identify when an SPD has reached the end of its life, and needs to be replaced.

2020 NEC

In the 2020 NEC Section 240.2 did not exist
In the 2020 NEC Section 240.9 did not exist

2023 NEC

In the 2023 NEC Section 240.2 now reads as follows

242.2 Reconditioned Equipment.
SPDs and surge arresters shall not be reconditioned.

In the 2023 NEC Section 240.9 now reads as follows:

242.9 Indicating.
An SPD shall provide indication that it is functioning properly.