12 Reasons Why You Should Use A Surge Protector

Most people have at least one surge protector in their home, but many don't realize the important role that these devices play in protecting their electronics. A surge protector is an inexpensive way to protect your investment in electronic equipment.

Electrician Central Coast owner Calvin Hudson explains that surge protectors are devices that help to protect electronic equipment from damage caused by sudden, unexpected power surges. While most people think of them as being used only in homes and businesses, they can also be found in many industrial and commercial settings.

How does a surge protector work?

A surge protector is an electrical device that is used to protect against voltage spikes. These devices are also known as transient voltage suppressors (TVS) or surge suppression devices (SSD). Surge protectors are used in a variety of applications, including computer systems, home theatre equipment, and office equipment.

Surge protectors work by diverting or absorbing excess voltage away from sensitive electronic components. This helps to prevent damage to those components from power surges. Surge protectors can be used to protect against both internal and external power surges. Internal power surges can be caused by factors such as lightning strikes or power outages. External power surges can be caused by factors such as faulty wiring or appliance failures.

Most surge protectors will have a rating that indicates the maximum voltage that they can handle. It is important to choose a surge protector with a rating that is appropriate for the equipment that it will be used to protect. Surge protectors are available in a variety of styles, including plug-in strips, stand-alone units, and whole-house systems. They can also be purchased with or without backup batteries.

There are several reasons why you should use a surge protector. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. To prevent damage to your electronic equipment: Sudden power surges can cause serious damage to computers, TVs, stereos, and other electronic equipment. By using a surge protector, you can help to protect your investment and keep your equipment working properly for longer.

2. To avoid data loss: Power surges can also cause data loss. If you have important files on your computer, you could lose them if there is a power surge.

3. To reduce the risk of fire: Power surges can cause fires. If you have a surge protector, you can help to prevent this from happening.

4. To save money: Replacing damaged electronic equipment can be expensive. By using a surge protector, you can help to reduce the need for replacements.

5. To protect your warranty: Many manufacturers void warranties if the damage is caused by a power surge. By using a surge protector, you can help to ensure that your warranty remains valid.

6. To improve the performance of your equipment: Power surges can cause electronic equipment to work less efficiently. By using a surge protector, you can help to keep your equipment working at its best.

7. To reduce downtime: If a power surge damages your equipment, it can take some time to repair or replace it. This can result in lost productivity and income. By using a surge protector, you can help to minimize the amount of time your business is affected by power surges.

8. To protect against brownouts: Brownouts are periods when the voltage supplied to your home or business drops below the normal level. This can damage electronic equipment. By using a surge protector, you can help to prevent this from happening.

9. To protect against blackouts: Blackouts are periods when the power supply is completely cut off. This can be caused by many things, including severe weather. If you have a surge protector, you can help to keep your equipment safe during a blackout.

10. To reduce interference: Power surges can cause interference with radios, TVs, and other electronic equipment. By using a surge protector, you can help to reduce this interference.

11. To protect against voltage spikes: Voltage spikes are sudden increases in the voltage supplied to your home or business. These can damage electronic equipment. By using a surge protector, you can help to prevent this from happening.

12. To improve the lifespan of your equipment: Sudden power surges can shorten the lifespan of electronic equipment. By using a surge protector, you can help to extend the life of your equipment.

Surge protectors are an important part of protecting your electronic equipment. By using one, you can help to reduce the risk of damage, data loss, fire, and other problems.