A surge protector is an important part of home and business safety. These devices help prevent short-circuiting, and maybe more importantly, help prevent fires.
But did you know there are different types of surge protectors? Or that there’s a distinct difference between a power strip and a surge protector? This article can help you decide what’s best for your property,
What’s a Surge Protector?
Electrical surges can happen frequently, due to lost power, tripped circuit breakers, power outages, lightning strikes, on/off cycles of equipment, and more. Surge protectors are handy tools design to handle electrical irregularities and maintain an even flow of power to your devices. It’s important to note that a surge protector resembles a power strip.
What’s a Power Strip?
A power strip is basically an extension cord with multiple outlets. Unlike a surge protector, it does not have the ability to absorb electrical surges and prevent damage to items plugged into it.
While surge protectors and power strips look a lot alike, there are several revealing signs that will help you tell the difference:
- Safely flip the device over when it’s not plugged in and look for text about a Joule rating or other information. This is a characteristic of a surge protector.
- Look for an indicator light that glows when a surge protector is plugged in, to signal that the protection feature is working.
What are the Different Types of Surge Protectors?
There are two main types of surge protectors:
Rack Mount Surge Protector
Slim in design and often the best choice for business or heavier needs, rack mount surge protectors are designed to protect network components.
Power Strip Surge Protector
Best for home and personal needs, these surge protectors usually sit on the floor and look very similar to power strips. They contain a power cord and plug that go into a wall outlet.
When deciding which surge protector is best for your home or business, there are a number of things to consider:
- What are you protecting?
- How many outlets do you need?
- Where will you install the surge protector?
- Does it have an indicator light?
- What is its power?
- Is it UL (Underwriters Laboratory) listed?
What are the Different Types of Power Strips?
There are five main types of power strips:
- Wall mount
- Vertical mount
- Rack mount
- Modular/desktop
- Plug strip
As you consider a power strip, ask yourself these questions:
- How many outlets do you need?
- What is this power strip for?
Features like voltage, circuit breakers, and thermal sensors should also be considered.
Surge Protector and Power Strip Do’s and Don’ts
Surge protectors and power strips are certainly useful tools, But they can present hazards if used improperly. Be sure to follow these dos and don’ts.
Do:
- Know the plug sizes.
- Invest in more outlets than you think you’ll need.
- Check your connections.
- Consider investing in more joules.
- Use only “light-load” items like lamps and clocks on power strips.
- Use power strips sparingly.
- Be sure your surge protectors and power strips are UL listed.
- Consider power strips with internal circuit breakers and surge protection.
Don’t:
- Overload.
- Use them for high-power capacity items.
- Confuse a power strip and surge protector.
- Use a power strip if it feels hot.
- “Daisy chain” — plug one power strip into another, which cause appliances to short out or cause a fire.
SERVPRO Can Help 24/7
If your surge protector or power strip ever catches fire, SERVPRO can help. We’re equipped to handle fire damage, water damage, mold remediation, and more.
In short, we’ll help to make it “Like it never even happened.” Contact us for more information, or visit our FAQ and Glossary.