Data Doctors: Surge Protector Buying Tips

Surge protection for your devices is just one important factor when choosing a power strip, especially if you’re slowly accumulating a lot of devices on your desk.

Q: What should I look for when purchasing a new surge protector for a large number of devices?

AND: Surge protection for your devices is just one important factor when choosing a power strip, especially if you’re slowly accumulating a lot of devices on your desk.

There are different types of power plugs to consider, especially so-called “wall warts” – larger units that may cover adjacent outlets.

Traditional power strips combine sockets in rows, causing a ‘sticking’ problem, but newer designs can provide elegant solutions.

Inventory your devices

I would start by assessing the number of devices and the type of plug associated with each device. If you have devices such as a smartphone that have a plug with a detachable USB cable, you can free up an electrical outlet by purchasing a power strip that includes USB ports.

If you have a large number of warts on your wall, it may be worth looking at power strips with larger spacing between outlets or other designs that accommodate them.

It’s also a good idea to have one or two extra outlets so you don’t run into performance issues in the future.

Power strip and surge protection

Inexpensive power strips that lack any real surge protection should be avoided because an AC voltage surge can damage equipment.

Understanding joule ratings

The primary spec you’ll want to look for is the joule rating, which indicates its absorption capabilities.

A common misconception about this rating is that a higher rating simply means it can take a larger jump, but it is also an indication of how much energy it can absorb before failing.

Each stroke reduces the absorption capacity depending on the size of the stroke. Think of it like a sponge that can only absorb so much water before it becomes saturated and needs to be replaced.

Consumer-grade surge protectors have a finite number of surges they can absorb before they degrade or fail completely, so a higher joule rating usually means they will be effective for a longer period of time.

I usually look for something with a power rating of 2,000 joules or higher, especially if you live in an area where electrical storms are common.

This means it can absorb up to 2,000 joules of total energy before becoming ineffective.
Look for a surge protector that has an indicator light to show that it is actively protecting your devices. When this light goes out, it has absorbed as much energy as it can and needs to be replaced.

Anyone with an older surge protector that doesn’t have an indicator light should check to see if it’s getting hot. This may indicate that it has absorbed as much energy as it can and needs to be replaced.

Crimping tension

This specification indicates when the protection circuit is activated, so the lower the voltage, the better the protection. I would stay away from anything that lists voltage levels above 400 volts for sensitive electronics such as computers, monitors, printers, scanners, televisions, video game systems, and sound and home theater equipment.

Ken Colburn is the founder and CEO of Data Doctors Computer Services. Ask any technical question on Facebook or X.

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