Surge Protection – Facts and Myths
Myth
Surge protector? She’ll be right, mate.
Fact
Without surge protection, you are vulnerable to a power surge damaging your electronics as well as your phone and cable lines. The cost of a surge protector is by far cheaper than the cost of replacing your flat screen telly!
Myth
This surge protector is expensive; it must work better than the rest!
Fact
There is no evidence that the price reflects the quality of the surge protector. The pricier ones most likely have more fancy features but you can still get a good quality surge protector at a reasonable price.
Myth
All power boards are surge protectors.
Fact
While some power boards have a surge protector built-in, not all have this function. Some are just extension cords for multiple outlets. Check the packaging for surge protection before you hand over your cash. For advice try your local
Jaycar.
Myth
I have a generator and surge suppressor, so I don’t need a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply).
Fact
Yes, backup generators help during power outages but they have little to no protection against other power disturbances. By using a UPS it will provide near-instantaneous protection from input power interruptions, by supplying energy stored in batteries. Though the power source is fairly short, it will provide enough power to start a nearby power source or properly shut down protected equipment. Don’t forget generators can create harmful power effects when switching between the main power source and the generator power. A UPS is advised. Find out more on the do’s and don’ts on running a generator
here.
Myth
Nah, my business is too small to worry about surge protectors.
Fact
Power surges don’t care if you have a small or large business. They can happen anywhere. Small businesses are often not in the position to be without their electronics for long lengths of time as they rely more heavily on this equipment to run the show. A power surge will overload and fry the electronics within your PC. While an outage doesn't do a great deal of damage to a power supply or motherboard, the subsequent surge will. This will result in a computer that won't turn on after a power outage occurs.
You can also get a permanent surge protector which is more powerful than power point or outlet-based surge protectors. They should be installed after the main switch and should be protected by a suitable fuse or circuit breaker which can only be installed by a fully licensed and qualified electrician.
The
DTE Team uses surge protectors in their homes and in the DTE office. It provides peace of mind especially when the weather and low-voltage surges can be so unpredictable. If you need some help protecting your electronics give the team a call.
