Vital Role of Surge Protectors With Computers

There are a few accessories that make a huge difference when it comes to the regular use of computers, and one of the most well-known and useful here is the surge protector. Keeping your devices protected from power surges and other potential issues is very important for their care and lifespan, and surge protectors are made to do just that.

At PC Laptops, we're happy to provide a wide range of desktop computers, laptop computers and computer repair services for clients around SLC, Layton, West Jordan and many nearby areas. How do surge protectors work, why is using one very important for your computers and other devices, and what are some of the chief risks you face if you do not use one? Here's a simple rundown.

How Surge Protectors Work

For those who have never had the functional elements of surge protectors explained to them, it is important to understand how these devices work. Surge protectors, which are also known as surge suppressors, represent a type of electrical device designed to protect equipment from short-term power fluctuations or spikes.

They contain the electricity coming from your power source in order for you to avoid potential damage or destruction caused by sudden voltage spikes. They do this by creating a "grounding system" within their circuitry, which will absorb any voltage that is higher than the rated level of your electrical device.

This means that in any case where a surge of power is sent to your device, the surge protector will sense it and divert it away from the equipment completely.

Why Use a Surge Protector?

Using a surge protector is important for any computer or other electrical items you have in your home. Even small voltage spikes can cause problems such as data corruption and hardware damage that can be expensive to repair or replace.

Moreover, if a surge is powerful enough, it can even blow out your computer's power supply unit and create an electrical fire hazard. A good quality surge protector will protect your devices from any power surges, eliminating the risk of such catastrophes occurring in the first place.

With laptops and computers in particular, high levels of voltage are contained within the power unit and can cause serious damage to your laptop, including shorting out its motherboard or frying critical components. By using a surge protector, you can avoid such risks and keep your devices running for longer periods of time without any unexpected mishaps.

Risks of Not Using a Surge Protector

If you decide not to use a surge protector, the risks of using your computer can be far greater than you think. Aside from data corruption and hardware damage, not using a surge protector can even cause loss of power or fire hazards in some cases.

Without a surge protector to limit the amount of electrical current that is sent to your device, sudden spikes or surges could overload it and permanently destroy your computer. This is an especially risky situation for those living in areas prone to lightning storms, as surges caused by lighting can reach incredibly high levels of energy and cause serious damage.

It's also important not to underestimate the frequency of power surges, which probably happen more often than you think. Power surges can be caused by anything from lightning to a faulty appliance in your own home, so it's always better to stay on the safe side and use a surge protector for all of your electronic devices.

Choosing the Ideal Surge Protector

There are several surge protector models and features out there, so it's important to make sure you pick the right one for your needs. Here are some elements to be considering:

• Number of ports: Depending on the number of devices you want to connect to it, make sure your surge protector has enough ports. Most surge protectors come with anywhere from three to eight.
• Voltage rating: The voltage rating of your surge protector should be higher than the voltage rating of your device. This allows it to absorb any excess power that may come in from a surge and ensure the safety of your equipment.
• Protection features: Different protection features offer different levels of protection, so make sure you choose the one that is most suitable for your particular needs. The most common protection features are surge protection, overload protection and short circuit protection.
• Lifespan: Surge protectors tend to get damaged over time, so it's important to pick one that is made from high quality materials and has a long lifespan.

By taking these factors into consideration when purchasing a surge protector, you can ensure that your computer devices are protected from sudden voltage spikes and electrical overloads. This will help you keep your equipment running smoothly and efficiently for as long as possible.

For more here, or to learn about any of our computer or laptop services, speak to our team at PC Laptops today.