Power blinks
Find out why you sometimes see your digital clocks blinking 12:00.
When you're in the store looking for a good surge protector, remember that you get what you pay for. Many multi-outlet "power strips" provide no protection against power surges. A high-quality surge protectors will monitor the flow of electricity and divert excess voltage either back into the system or to the ground.There are two types of surge protectors - to fully protect your electronics, using both types is a must.
A "point-of-use" surge protector guards individual devices from lower-level internal fluctuations.
You may have equipment plugged into a multi-socket power strip, but it's important to realize that many of these devices function simply as extension cords, providing little or no protection against power surges.
The adage "you get what you pay for" very much applies to surge protectors, with prices ranging from $5 to more than $150.
Here's what to look for:
To protect against large external power surges, a whole-house protector is key. These devices cost around $150 to $300, and are installed on your service panel by a licensed electrician.
While most large appliances can withstand low-level power surges, all programmable appliances should be connected to a surge protector, including:
If you have a computer or entertainment system, every component must be connected through a surge protector - one unprotected device can transmit a surge to every other piece of equipment.
For example, if you connect every piece of computer equipment through a protector except the modem line, surge can travel through the modem and spread to the other devices.
Also keep in mind that both whole-house and strip protectors offer one-time only protection against large power surges - and no product can protect 100 percent against a catastrophic surge like a lightning strike.
Check the indicator lights on your surge protectors often, especially after storms. If a high-level surge has occurred, you'll need to replace the protectors - but your equipment will be safe.
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