Surge Protectors: A Necessary Accessory

Power surges and spikes occur more often than you'd think. A common misconception is that they only happen during lightning storms. Surges can also be caused by issues like electrical grid problems or a downed tree that hits a power line, and they can sometimes happen when high-power electrical devices like air conditioners are in use. Power spikes, which are similar to a surge but shorter, are more common in homes. A power spike occurs from appliances that demand a lot of power, and spikes can be just as dangerous as surges. Everyone owns appliances that can cause a spike at any moment, and depending on your home's wiring, the occurrence can be frequent. Electronics like desktop computers, laptops, and TVs are extremely sensitive to voltage changes and can be damaged easily. They need to be protected, and when they're plugged in, a surge protector plug is their only defense!

What Does a Surge Protector Do?

A surge protector diverts excess energy away from electronics by directing electricity to the grounding line, and the rest is dissipated as heat. Surge protectors also include inputs to protect cable, internet and phone wires, because surges can happen on any power line. Not all surge protectors are created equal, so be sure to prioritize a UL certified surge protector for the best protection.

Surge Protectors vs Power Strip

When shopping for a surge protector, it's important to choose a product that'll protect your equipment. There's a major difference between surge protectors and power strips; knowing what sets them apart will save you money if a surge occurs. The purpose of a power strip is to safely split a wall outlet into multiple plug receptacles, not to withstand the power or heat produced from a surge. In fact, they can potentially catch fire when a surge occurs. A power strip doesn't offer protection during a power fluctuation, even though most have a circuit breaker. A surge protector looks a lot like a power strip but is much more sophisticated. They must meet standards based on independent laboratory measurements for power dissipation and heat resistance.

Surge Protective Device Features

As referenced earlier, it's important that the product is UL 1449 Certified and states that it offers transient voltage surge or interrupter switch protection. Here are some other features to consider, and what they mean.

Warranties

A warranty will offer a certain amount of financial coverage if equipment is damaged while properly using the surge protector.

Automatic Warning Devices

Surge protectors don't last forever, and every surge decreases their lifespan. As a general rule, replace them every few years. Some products offer an audible tone or flashing light when the surge protector is no longer protecting the equipment.

Energy Absorption

This a number calculated in joules and lets you know how big of a surge can be handled. When comparing, the highest joule rating surge protector is always best. Look for protectors with a rating of at least 600 joules.

3-Line Protection

This protects all power lines (hot, neutral, ground) because a surge can occur on any line.

Power Shutdown

This will shut down the power to all devices if a surge is detected.

GFCI

This feature will shut the power off if a short circuit is detected.

Cord Fire Protection

This will cut power to the unit if a sensor detects damage to the wire insulation.

Line Conditioner

This will smooth out voltage fluctuations to help your electronics' performance.

Surge protectors help prevent electrical fires and protect appliances and electronics. The cost of investing in a surge protector is easily outweighed by their necessity. Don't wait another minute to bring home these important little safeguards!