Surge Protector Reviews

A power surge, which can occur when lightening strikes or other electrical disturbances occur, happens when electrical voltage goes above the designated level. In households throughout the United States normal voltage for most homes is 120 volts so a surge occurs when voltage goes above 120 volts.

Surge protectors can help prevent or lessen damage that can happen when a power surge occurs. Many appliances throughout the home and office are often left plugged in and it is these devices that would most likely be damaged if a power surge were to take place. If the surge in voltage is significant enough, the appliance will be damaged or even destroyed. Power surges that don't outright destroy appliances can cause more wear to wires and other electrical components which will eventually cause the machine to fail sooner than it normally would.

Surge protectors work by monitoring the flow of electrical voltage and divert surges, or excess voltage, back into the system or into the ground. There are two main types of surge protectors and, for complete protection from extreme electrical surges; both types will need to be used.

Surge protectors for individual devices

Surge protectors for individual devices are also called point-of-use surge protectors. These devices protect individual devices but only from fluctuations that are low in intensity. Point-of-use surge protectors are often used for computers and TVs but, it should be noted, many of these act more as an extension cord than an actual surge protector that will provide protection from electrical surges. These typically range in price from around $5 up to more than $150.

Here are some things to look for when purchasing a point-of-use surge protector for your home or office:

A light or alarm that will indicate when a power surge has taken place.

Enough electrical outlets to protect all the various components of a system, such as with a computer or home entertainment system.

A power switch that will allow power to be shut off to everything that is plugged into the surge protector.

Response time of 10 nanoseconds or less; the faster the better.

A joule rating, this is a measure of the ability to absorb power surges, as high as possible. 400 is acceptable but 600 is the best option.

Surge protectors for the entire house

Surge protectors for the entire house, while more expensive, are the only complete way to protect your home or office from larger electrical surges. These can cost up to $300, although some models can be purchased for as little as $150, and are typically installed near the meter or electrical service panel. Usually, they will need to be installed by licensed electrician.

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