Protecting Your Electronics During Storms: Surge Protectors 101

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about surge protectors and how to use them to safeguard your electronics during storms.

During a storm emergency, your electronics can be extremely vulnerable to power surges that can damage or destroy them. Lightning strikes and power fluctuations caused by storms can send surges of electricity through your home's electrical system, endangering your valuable electronics. That's where surge protectors come in. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about surge protectors and how to use them to safeguard your electronics during storms.

What is a Surge Protector?

A surge protector is a device designed to protect your electronics from power surges. It works by diverting excess voltage and regulating the flow of electricity to prevent damage to connected devices. Surge protectors typically feature multiple outlets and come in various forms, including power strips, wall-mounted units, and standalone devices.

How to Use Surge Protectors to Protect Electronics During Storms

1. Purchase a High-Quality Surge Protector: Not all surge protectors are created equal. Invest in a reputable surge protector that offers adequate protection for your electronics. Look for a surge protector with a joule rating of at least 600 or higher.
2. Assess Your Electronics' Needs: Determine the total wattage and the number of outlets needed for the devices you want to protect. Make sure your surge protector has enough outlets to accommodate all your electronics.
3. Plug Directly into the Surge Protector: Connect your electronics directly into the Surge Protector rather than plugging them into multiple extension cords or other power strips. This ensures that your devices receive the maximum protection from power surges.
4. Do Not Overload the Surge Protector: Pay attention to the wattage limits of your surge protector and avoid exceeding its maximum capacity. Overloading the surge protector can lead to overheating and an increased risk of power surges.
5. Replace Old Surge Protectors: Surge protectors have a limited lifespan. Over time, the protective components wear down, reducing their effectiveness. Replace your surge protector every 2-3 years to ensure optimal protection for your electronics.
6. Prepare for Storms in Advance: Before a storm hits, unplug sensitive electronics such as computers, TVs, and gaming consoles from the surge protector. This provides an extra layer of protection against power surges during the storm.
7. Use Whole-House Surge Protection: Consider installing a whole-house surge protection system for ultimate protection. These systems are installed at the electrical panel and provide defense against power surges that may enter through other pathways, such as phone, cable, or satellite lines.
8. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather updates and be prepared to unplug your electronics and disconnect surge protectors if necessary. Additionally, following a severe storm, it's crucial to check your surge protectors for any signs of damage and replace them if needed.

By following these surge protector tips, you can safeguard your electronics during storms and minimize the risk of damage caused by power surges. Incorporate surge protectors into your storm damage plan to ensure your electronics are protected and ready to use after storms pass.

At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of protecting your belongings during storm emergencies. If your electronics or property suffers damage because of storms, our experts are here to help with efficient storm damage cleanup and restoration services. Contact us for assistance and quick recovery after storms and power outages.