What is the Best Power Strip Surge Protector?
The market for power strip surge protectors is filled with a wide variety of options, each touting its own features and claims. Based on expert reviews and product testing data, the Tripp Lite Surge Protector with 12 Outlets and 3990 Joules of protection emerges as one of the best overall choices. This surge protector provides robust surge protection and features like coaxial/Ethernet line protection and child-safety outlets. Another highly-rated option is the Belkin Surgeplus 12-Outlet Power Strip Surge Protector, which boasts 4320 joules of protection and a lifetime warranty.
Why You Should Consider More Than Just a Surge Protector
A power strip is just one part of a larger system designed to prevent damage to electronic devices. While newer models typically include thermal fuses to ensure the surge protector element doesn’t burn, older units with less advanced components can pose a fire hazard. Cheaper units often feature tiny Metal-Oxide Varistors (MOV), which are sufficient for minor spikes but may be insufficient for more significant ones.
Creating a Comprehensive Protection System
A robust electronic system requires the use of both a whole house protector and local surge strips where electronic goods are present. While specifying the right protector can be challenging—indeed it confuses even experts—a good system can significantly extend the life of your gadgets and appliances. One effective method is to unplug your devices during storms, rather than relying solely on protection devices.
Understanding Whole House Surge Protection
Whole house surge protection is a critical component in safeguarding your home from unexpected power surges. Unlike a simple power strip, a whole house surge protector works on a larger scale, protecting your entire home from power surges. With the help of an electrician, you can install a system that can quickly and easily save your appliances from shortened lifespans and catastrophic power surges.
The Role of an Uninterruptible Power Supply
Another vital element in a comprehensive protection system is an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). These devices provide a back-up battery and inverter that offer 120 volts during power outages, along with the usual MOV and spike suppression devices. Having a UPS can further bolster your protection against power surges and outages.
Types of Power Surges
Power surges can be categorized into two types: catastrophic and incremental. While catastrophic surges, typically caused by lightning, are the most publicized and can quickly damage a wide range of electronic items, they are less likely to occur. In most households, it is incremental power surges that are the greater concern. These incremental surges can result from unexpected load changes and other events, gradually damaging the delicate components on your electronics.
Incremental Power Surges and Their Impact
Even though catastrophic lightning strikes are uncommon, incremental power surges are a more frequent and insidious threat. These surges, which occur as a result of unexpected load changes and switching events in other rooms, can significantly shorten the lifespan of your electronic devices. The result is that you may need to replace expensive appliances such as microwaves, dishwashers, and dryers more often than necessary.