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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