I am still using the surge protector I bought for my first computer 20+ years ago. I am now suggesting the replacement of surge protectors in my revised Resident Handbook.
Losing valuable data due to an electrical surge or spike can ruin more than just your day, and most of us try to protect our sensitive electronics and computers with surge protectors. However, the surge protectors most of us purchase are inexpensive and subject to failure. Many are surprised to learn that most surge protectors wear out, and that they may give no indication that the protection is no longer available. Not only do the devices wear out, once they do so they may generate heat, which in some cases can pose a fire hazard.
And, since the inexpensive, plug-in type protectors are only grounded through the circuit’s ground wire, they are unable to handle a direct lightening strike which can generate thousands of amps. The ones offering the best protection are those installed in the circuit breaker panel and connected directly to ground, thereby protecting all the circuits in the home.
According to experts in both electronics as well as fire prevention, replacing inexpensive surge protectors every 3-5 years is a good idea. The few dollars spent can be well worth the added protection and safety.
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I learned the hard way back in college... my computer fried while finishing a term paper. I've had this religious-type thing about surge protectors ever since.
I recently heard that too. I getting my daughter ready for college and a surge protector is on the list, at the check out counter, the lady said they need to be replaced every few years.
What is the resident handbook? Sounds interesting.
I have surge protection on my desktop system and my HD TV/Entertainment system. But, not on my laptop. The only thing I have ever lost is a modem on my laptop, twice.