How to Buy a Surge Suppressor

Surge suppressors are essential for computer systems. They protect the computer against increases in voltage, although most won't protect against drops in voltage. For that, you need an uninterrupted power supply. (See the Related eHows for information on that.)

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Surge Protectors

1. Buy a surge suppressor made for computers as opposed to one made for small appliances or audio-video equipment.

2. Pick a surge suppressor with modem protection unless your budget is extremely limited.

3. Buy a unit with LED indicators that show the line is good and protection is in effect.

4. Look for a rating of at least 700 joules. If your budget is extremely limited, look for a rating of at least 400 joules.

5. Get a supressor with low clamping voltage (a maximum of 400 volts).

6. Look for a fast response time (less than 10 nanoseconds).

7. Buy a surge suppressor that specifically offers lightning protection if you live in an area with frequent lightning.

8. Compare insurance guarantees offered by the manufacturers.

9. Compare features such as number of outlets, color coded outlets and included modem cables.

Tips & Warnings

• If you won't be home and you are expecting a major storm, shut down your system and unplug the surge suppressor from the wall.
• Periodically check the LED indicators on your surge suppressor to make sure it is still good. Minor increases in voltage wear out the MOVs (metal oxide varistors).
• If your surge suppressor is physically damaged or worn out, replace it. When a surge suppressor successfully absorbs a major hit, it usually melts or shows other indications of damage. Some manufacturers will replace your surge suppressor in these instances.
• Remember these are surge suppressors, not surge protectors.

on 8/8/2006 Lower clamping voltage too low will cause the MOVs to degrade fast. Ex: with mains 240V, a 250V clamping voltage MOV will degrade very fast and destroyed by a high power surge. A 300V MOV will last much longer and capable of surviving the same power surge. However, I've seen a 400V MOV failed to protect an air-conditioner while the 300V did it's job.

on 11/22/2005 I work in IT support and repairs and I've seen entire computers completely destroyed by one power surge. Get one now!

on 11/22/2005 There's a difference between a surge suppressor and a lightening arrestor. A surge suppressor is made to deal with hundreds, maybe thousands, of volts. Lightening can be millions of volts. Make sure the suppressor is meant for lightening protection, too.

on 11/22/2005 Working for an ISP, trust me and get one with the phone line protection. Which costs more? Suppressor, modem, or repair bills?