Surge protectors look like power strips, but they’re completely different devices. Though it may seem as is the two are interchangeable, they’re not. Power strips are simply extra outlets. They have a limit to their voltage capacity, usually 1800 watts, and you need to be careful what you plug into one. On the other hand, surge protectors redirect electricity from power surges. The result is the protection of your electrical devices like your laptop. This means that your laptop won’t stop working during a bad storm, and it won’t sustain any damage. However, surge protectors do have their limits.
A few main causes of power surges include inclement weather, bad wiring, and too many devices plugged into an outlet. If you’re having problems with your electrical devices, look to these warning signs to let you know if you need to upgrade your surge protection.
It’s Past Its Prime
Surge protectors only last about 3 to 5 years. That’s it. Little power surges happen all the time, and big power surges demand a lot of protection. So, it doesn’t take long for surge protectors to wear down. If you haven’t replaced your surge protector in a while, it might be time for an upgrade.
There Aren’t Enough Joules
Surge protectors are made to redirect electricity away from your electrical devices during a power surge. Therefore, they come in different strength levels. Look for how many joules of protection the surge protector offers. Small devices may only need 1,000 joules, while larger appliances and more expensive devices may need 2,000 or more.
Electrical Devices Aren’t Working Right
Surge protectors protect from fluctuations in electricity flow. In other words, they maintain a steady flow through to your electrical devices. If you notice fluctuations in the output of your appliances, the screen flickering on your laptop, or your electrical devices working inconsistently, you may have inadequate protection coming from the surge protector. Therefore, you might want to upgrade to a new one.
The Indicator Light Is Blinking
If the surge protector has an indicator, check the light. If it is blinking, it is telling you that it’s the end of the road for the surge protector. Healthy surge protectors have a solid, steady light. Some of them also have an LED indicator that will set off an alarm when they are no longer working.
Let Us Help You Keep the Electricity Flowing
If you are looking to protect your electronic devices with surge protection, our electricians are here to answer any of your questions, so call us today at Economy Lighting and Electric in Camarillo, CA. We’ll ensure that you have enough surge protection for all of your electronic devices, no matter what.
