Most people are aware of the importance of using a surge protector to protect computers and other expensive electronic equipment. Surge protectors are usually associated with lightning, but other power fluctuations are just as deadly.
Neighborhoods in the New Orleans area experience power variations (also called "transients") on a daily basis. Major appliances (washing machines, electric dryers, electric ovens, A/C units, etc.) cause some. Lightning, industrial equipment, or disruptions along the power grid (cars crashing into utility poles, fires, etc.) prompt others.
A "spike" occurs when line voltage exceeds its normal level, even for a fraction of a second. A "sag" (also called a "brown out") is a momentary dip. Either can be devastating for electronic equipment.
When the lights blink, PCs often reboot. Your computer might seem okay, but don't assume there hasn't been any damage. This also applies to your TV or stereo. Power fluctuations weaken sensitive electronic components over time. The damage is cumulative, not instantaneous.
Sags are common after a power failure. During the summer, people tend to leave their air conditioners running, even if they're not home. When lost power is restored, hundreds of compressors suddenly kick on, putting a strain on everything from nearby transformers to the local substation.
When voltage drops, electrical "inertia" causes many devices to draw more current. More current usually means more heat, and heat is not a friend of electronic equipment. This is why voltage sags are just as harmful as voltage spikes.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer. A good surge protector can protect your equipment if lightning strikes nearby, but not if your house takes a direct hit. Experts say only a properly-installed grounding rod connected to your house wiring will prevent a direct hit from devastating your house the way it damages trees at the park.
For years, power companies have advised customers to unplug their electronic equipment during a thunderstorm. This, however, only works if the device isn't also connected to a cable TV system, an outside antenna, or a telephone line.
Today, an effective surge suppressor must do more than counteract voltage fluctuations on the AC line. It must also clamp spurious voltages entering from coaxial cables or telephone lines, plus suppress radio frequency interference/electromagnetic interference (RFI/EMI).
Surge protectors aren't created equal. Surprisingly, the most expensive models aren't always the most effective. Look for devices rated at 1000 joules (a unit of energy) or more. Meaningful testing lab certifications, such as UL 1449 (2nd or 3rd edition) are also important.
Many suppressors say they will repair or replace any equipment damaged by power surges while connected to the device. This might sound reassuring, but be sure to read the fine print. The insurance is often limited to the damaged equipment's market value, which is far less than the replacement cost.
Because small electronic devices, such as broadband routers, are powered by external AC power supplies (affectionately called "wall warts"), well-designed surge suppressors now feature widely-space outlets, so these devices can be plugged in side-by-side. Belkin's 11-outlet Conceal Surge Protector adds a convenient cable tray and a hinged cover to make a potentially tangled mess look presentable.
Consumers are also starting to realize that many electronic devices consume power even when they're turned off. Prime examples are cable boxes, DVD burners, and instant-on television sets. The U.S. Department of Energy now estimates that nearly 20% of the average family's utility bill is attributable to standby power, which is also called "phantom power" or "vampire power."
Several companies claim you can save $40 - $50 a year by using a "smart" UPS (uninterruptible power supply) or battery backup that automatically turns off accessories when the main device is powered off. Examples are the new Tripp Lite Eco-Series UPS (Models ECO350UPS, ECO550UPS, and ECO750UPS) and the APC Back-UPS ES 750G.
Want a more centralized approach? Belkin's 8-outlet Conserve Surge Protector is controlled by a wireless, battery-powered remote control. The remote can control multiple Conserve units located throughout your house or apartment, so one switch controls everything. The device was recently awarded Popular Mechanics Magazine's Editor's Choice award.
Does this cover everything you need to know about surge suppressors? No, but it's a good start. If you want to know more about how to protect your home and its contents from power surges, consult "Surges Happen! How to Protect the Appliances in Your Home," a free publication in PDF format provided by the U.S. Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
