The Best Surge Protector

Your electronic devices and appliances rely on a steady stream of electricity. Unfortunately, electricity can be unpredictable. Power fluctuations and storms can cause something called a “surge,” which can damage sensitive electronics. Since most households leave items plugged in even when they aren’t in use, this means many consumers are at risk of a loss.

There’s a way to protect against those surges, though. A surge protector is built specifically to absorb those spikes and over-voltages. The average home experiences hundreds of potentially dangerous surges in electricity every year. With a surge protector, you get protection against those spikes to prevent data loss or, worse, entire device loss.

But not all surge protectors are the same. You’ll notice as you’re looking for a surge protector that they’re rated in Joules. That rating refers to the level of energy the equipment can absorb before failing. The higher the rating, the better, but it’s best to stick with protectors that have a Joule rating of at least 600.

You’ll also have a wide range of choices when it comes to the build of your surge protector. Traditional strip-style protectors are designed to be set on the floor or a table, but those can get in the way. In recent years, manufacturers have upgraded to a style that keeps the power strip as snugly against the wall as possible.

Before you start shopping for a surge protector, though, take a close look at the area where you’ll be keeping it. Pay attention not only to the space you’ll have to store the protector, but how accessible it will be for your power cords. You may find that the angle won’t be ideal for your power cords with some surge protectors, in which case you’ll possibly need to consider one that has adjustable outlets, or outlets on the sides as well as the front.

• The number of outlets, as well as the placement of them, are important considerations when you’re picking out a surge protector. Make sure you have enough to cover your current equipment plus anything you might add to your collection.
• Some surge protectors have USB outlets. This will come in handy for charging phones and mobile devices without having to track down your power brick.
• Bulky power cords can be tough to plug into tight outlets. Some surge protectors put plenty of space between each outlet to help with that.
• For surge protection, look for a strip rated at least 600 Joules. But you’ll find many rated above 1000.
• If you’ve had your power strip for a while, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Over time, power strips lose their protective features. Unfortunately, most strips won’t let you know when this happens. Surge protectors typically last three to five years.
• Some surge protectors have outlets that can be rotated by as much as 90 degrees. This will give you the flexibility you need if you’re squeezing it behind desks and other furniture.
• Surge protectors don’t just protect your equipment. They can also help reduce your risk of a fire. Some are even built using fire-resistant materials.
• As an extra protection, some surge protectors shut off power to the strip if the protection circuit is compromised.
• LED lights that alert you if an outlet is active can come in handy.
• Most surge protectors can be plugged into an outlet you already have. Some, however, will need to replace the outlet, which requires some basic installation work.
• Although they look similar to surge protectors, some power strips have no surge protection whatsoever. Look for a Joules rating on any power strip you’re buying.
• If you’re using the USB ports on your power strip for charging, you’ll want to make sure enough power gets through to your device. You’ll need at least 2 amps for quick-charging power.