Possible voltage fluctuation effects on electrical devices

Your home is connected to the low-voltage grid, which delivers power at a voltage of 230 volts. To prevent electrical appliances from getting damaged or breaking down altogether, standards exist which set limits on the maximum deviation from this mains voltage.
In turn, electrical appliances need to be designed in such a way that they operate properly within these limits. An appliance built to operate at 230 V will serve its maximum lifetime at this voltage.
If the voltage is too low, the amperage increases, which may result in the components melting down or causing the appliance to malfunction. If the voltage is too high, this will cause appliances to run ‘too fast and too high’ which will shorten their service life. Leads, cables, cords and power lines are not at risk.
Voltage and current strength are two different things!
voltage: (expressed in volts) is required to make your device or appliance work
current strength, or amperage (expressed in amperes), depends on the capacity of your appliance; the higher the power consumption of the appliance, the more current it will demand, but the mains voltage is a set value which remains unchanged.

How to prevent potential damage?

1. Buy appliances which meet the requirements of quality marks
Make sure the appliance is able to take voltage fluctuations. This is specified in the CE marking. Double check with the supplier if need be.
Lightning strikes often cause very high voltage spikes. Something which household appliances, even those carrying a quality hallmark, are often unable to withstand.
2. Have your indoor installation inspected on a regular basis
From your electricity meter, you are responsible for the household appliances in your home. It is advisable to have your indoor installation (cables and power lines from the meter, including trip switches and main switch) checked at regular intervals.
3. Consider setting up a surge protector
Various products are commonly available in the retail trade which act as a surge protector and, to a limited extent, also provide protection against damage as a result of lightning strikes. An Uninterrupted Power Supply will not only level off the voltage spikes between the grid and your installation but will also continue to give you voltage for a short while after a power outage.