The Best Power Strip Surge Protector

Electricity can be a scary thing so taking the right precautions for your electronics is an absolute must. For most home offices, a power strip that has multiple outlets can accommodate all the devices. But if the power strip is overloaded, it could fry everything that is plugged into it if it doesn’t shut off. This is where the surge protector comes in to play. Let’s see how they work and why you need one.

A surge in an electrical outlet is a significant increase in voltage that surpasses the set amount of electricity for that outlet. If too many devices are plugged into a power strip and it calls for more voltage than that outlet is designed to put out, then it will surge that voltage on the electronics, and they will “fry” or burn out.

When you purchase a power strip with a surge protector, you will prevent your electronics from burning out in the case of a surge. Inside a surge protector are different devices that direct the outstanding voltage to a grounding wire and away from the actual outlets. The main component is the metal oxide varistor also known as the MOV. This part connects the power line and the ground line before the electricity reaches the individual outlets. Surge protectors are a valuable asset to have to keep your electronics safe and functioning.

There are several styles of power strips with surge protectors to select. The more common type is a unit that looks like a wand and has a thick cord that plugs into the wall outlet. The bototek Power Strip Surge Protector With USB Ports, the AmazonBasics Power Strip Surge Protector, 2-Pack and the Tripp Lite Power Strip Surge Protector are all the wand type. The Philips Surge Protector Wall Tap, 2-Pack is the wall unit that plugs the unit directly into the wall, leaving you with a bigger outlet-looking unit. Both types are effective in protecting your electronics from surges.

• Look for a warranty that covers not just the power strip but also insurance on your electronics in case of failure.
• Make sure the power strip adheres to safety standards with automatic shutoff among other standards.
• Consider a power strip with USB ports so you can charge your phone and devices on the same unit without taking up an outlet.
• Make sure the spacing of the outlets is generous so that if you have bulky plugs, they all fit well.