Guide
How to choose a surge protector
Choose surge protection by verified safety listing, appropriate outlets and load, surge rating, grounding, replacement status, and the equipment you need to protect.
At a glance
- Not equivalent
- A basic power strip may provide no surge protection
- Protection is limited
- No plug-in protector guarantees protection from every lightning or utility event
Overview
A surge protector is not just a power strip. Surge protective components are designed to limit certain transient overvoltages, but they can wear out and cannot make equipment immune to every electrical event. Protection also depends on the building wiring and grounding system.
Look for verified protection
Use a product listed by a recognized testing laboratory and intended for the connected equipment. Check joule or surge ratings as supporting information, but also consider indicator lights, warranty terms, outlet spacing, and whether the protector's load rating is adequate.
Know when to replace it
Surge components can degrade after repeated or severe events. Replace units showing damage, overheating, failed protection indicators, or manufacturer-defined end-of-life behavior, and address recurring electrical problems at the source.
Sources and review
MOOR's explanatory text is supported by the following source links.
- Surges Happen! How to Protect Appliances — National Institute of Standards and Technology
- Electrical Safety — U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission