Surge Protector Buying Guide

Surge protectors guard electrically powered equipment against power surges and spikes, which are temporary and potentially damaging voltage increases along electric wires and cables. These small devices are plugged into wall outlets, either directly or via cable, and offer one or more protected outlets for safely powering connected devices.

Surge protectors typically use metal oxide varistors, or MOVs, to absorb excess AC voltage and allow only acceptable current levels to reach powered devices. They may also protect against line noise from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and Radio Frequency Interference (RFI).

What equipment needs surge protection?

Any device that plugs into an AC outlet can benefit from a surge protector. The most vulnerable pieces of equipment are those with memory and sensitive electronic circuitry. A surge protector is essential for:

• PCs and computer peripherals such as printers, monitors, and routers
• TVs, DVRs, cable boxes, satellite receivers, sound systems, and other home theater components
• Video game systems
• Lighting, tools, small appliances, and office equipment

Note: If you need to protect a computer, consider an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which provides surge protection and battery backup to allow a safe power-down in the event of an outage.

Joule Protection Rating

Surge protectors use a joule rating to indicate the total amount of surge voltage they can absorb without failing, whether in a single event or over a series of surges. A higher joule rating typically indicates stronger protection.

Protection Alerts

Some surge protectors use LED lights and/or audible alarms to indicate they are no longer providing an adequate level of power protection to connected equipment. These indicators should be monitored regularly, so the surge can be replaced immediately if necessary.

Auto-Shutoff

For additional safety, surge protectors can offer an automatic shutoff feature, which prevents power from reaching connected devices entirely if the protection becomes inadequate.

1. What Am I Protecting?

The value of the equipment you want to protect is the most important consideration when choosing a surge protector. Devices that are critical to work/home life and those that are otherwise costly or fragile require a greater degree of protection. A higher joule rating is the best indicator of greater protection.

• Choose a surge protector with a joule rating at the very least in the 200 to 400 range. Sensitive or costly equipment, such as computers, displays and audio/video equipment, warrants a joule rating of at least 1000. A joule rating over 2000 indicates maximum protection.

2. How Many Outlets Do I Need?

• Count the devices you want to plug into your surge protector and purchase a model with at least as many outlets.
• If any of your devices have right-angle plugs or transformers, be sure to select a model with adequate spacing between outlets to accommodate them.
• Consider whether you will charge USB devices from your surge protector and identify models with USB-A charging ports so you can avoid using adapters.

3. Where Will I Install My Surge Protector?

• If protection becomes compromised, will you be able to easily see LED lights and/or hear your surge protector alarm? If you want to protect devices that run while you are not in immediate vicinity, be sure to select a model with auto-shutoff functionality.
• If you need to mount your surge protector on a wall or along the side of a desk, be sure it has mounting tabs or screw holes.
• If furniture or other objects will be between your surge protector and its AC outlet, gauge the distance between them and purchase a device with an input cord of adequate length. Models with right-angle plugs may be able to better negotiate tight connection spaces.
• If your surge protector will be installed in an area with high foot traffic or might otherwise be vulnerable to the occasional impact, consider a model with metal housing.

3 Line Protection

Look for surge protectors that protect hot, neutral and ground lines (3 line protection) for the most thorough protection.

Data Line Protection

Computers and network equipment can be susceptible to power surges travelling over Ethernet (or coaxial/telephone/modem) cables. If you are using a wired Ethernet connection for your computer, look for a surge protector with one or more protected Ethernet jacks.

PoE Surge Protection

"In-line" surge protectors can offer protected Ethernet ports to safeguard Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications.

Hospital-Grade Protection

Hospital-grade surge protectors have safety enhanced outlets and plugs. They may also include special features that protect against electric shock and anti-microbial coating to inhibit the growth of bacteria on the device.

Individual Outlet Control

Some surge protectors offer the ability to switch off power to individual devices without interrupting power to all connected devices, which can improve efficiency and convenience in device management.

Portability

If you are travelling with equipment that needs protection, look for surge protectors with fold-down plugs and compact designs that can easily be stored in luggage, purses, briefcases and backpacks.

Specialized Use

Some in-line PoE surge protectors are IP66 rated for resistance to dust and water. These are ideal for outdoor applications like security cameras or digital signage.

Warranty and Insurance

A surge protector's job is to absorb the brunt of power surges and spikes so your equipment doesn't have to. This will take a toll over time, so look for models that come with lifetime replacement warrantees as well as insurance to repair or replace any connected equipment damaged by surges.

Surge Protector or Power Strip?

Do not confuse surge protectors with power strips. Both products provide outlets for powering multiple devices from a single wall outlet, and power strips often look similar to surge protectors. But only surge protectors will guard connected devices against power surges and line noise. Look for words on the product or packaging like "surge", "protection" or "suppression," and also look for a joule rating.

What is the Difference Between a Power Surge and a Power Spike?

Power surges and power spikes can be differentiated by their duration, with a power spike lasting 1 or 2 nanoseconds and a power surge lasting 3 nanoseconds or more, sometimes several seconds or even minutes. A power spike, while shorter, can involve a far higher voltage increase and is often caused by an electrical storm. Both surges and spikes can damage appliances, corrupt data on computers, and in extreme scenarios, they can start fires.

Can Other Power Products Provide Surge Protection?

Yes. Products like an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) and a power distribution unit (PDU) will typically include a degree of surge protection. A UPS will also provide battery power backup to connected devices in the case of an AC power outage. Look for some of the same criteria, like a joule rating, to evaluate the protection they provide.

Are Eco-Friendly Surge Protectors Available?

Make sure your surge protector is RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant. Features like individual outlet control and other special circuitry will reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

How Long Do Surge Protectors Last?

It depends on the device's joule rating and the frequency and severity of the surges it absorbs. The key is to check the LED indicator to ensure your device is providing adequate protection and/or purchase a surge protector with an auto-shutoff feature.