Do Surge Protectors Go Bad?
Whether you’ve just installed a surge protector or you’ve had one set up for a while, you might be wondering about their longevity. So, do surge projectors go bad? We’ll break down the basics, from signs your surge protector needs replacing to tips on keeping it maintained. At In Charge Electric, we offer residential electrical services you can trust and we’re excited to share our expertise with you. Explore our tips and tricks below to manage your surge protector like a pro.
What is a Surge Protector and How Does It Work?
A surge protector is a handy device that can help protect the valuable electronic equipment in your home, such as TVs and computers. It works by relying on metal oxide varistors (MOVs) to absorb and divert excess electrical voltage during sudden spikes. These sudden spikes can occur when lightning strikes or power outages are taking place, and a surge protector ensures no damage is done to your devices by keeping the voltage at a safe level.
Do Surge Protectors Go Bad Over Time?
While surge protectors can last many years, they do degrade with time. The MOVs in your surge protector will wear out through repeated use. With each surge, their capacity is reduced, so it is important to monitor your surge protector closely.
3 Signs Your Surge Protector May Need Replacement
Learn how to spot signs of wear and tear—and keep your devices protected.
1. Visible Damage or Burn Marks
If you think your surge protector may need to be replaced soon, it’s likely time for an inspection. Take a look at the protector for any signs of physical damage, such as burn or scorch marks and melted casing. If the surge protector is cracked or shows signs that overheating has occurred, it’s time for a replacement.
2. Loss of Power or Devices Not Working
It’s important to note that failed surge protectors will no longer protect the devices they’re connected to. If the devices seem to not be working or if they’re getting damaged when a surge occurs while still connected to the surge protector, this is one of the telltale signs that a surge protector is bad.
3. Indicator Light is Off
Most surge protectors come with a built-in light that will help indicate whether or not it is still working. If the status light is off, the protector may be damaged or broken.
How Long Do Surge Protectors Typically Last?
Wondering about surge protector lifespan? While surge protectors can often last around three to five years, this estimate can vary greatly depending on how often surges occur in your area. If you’re dealing with frequent surges, the protector’s lifespan can be greatly reduced, so you’ll want to monitor your unique situation closely.
Tips for Maintaining Your Surge Protectors
Looking for ways to make your surge protector last? We’ve got you covered. Read surge protector maintenance tips below.
- Buy a surge protector with a light: Be sure to opt for a surge protector with a built-in indicator light so you can better monitor its effectiveness.
- Unplug during severe storms: You’ll want to unplug your surge protectors during severe storms to keep them from becoming overwhelmed during lightning strikes and large surges.
- Consider a whole-house surge protector: If you’re experiencing frequent surges, are in an area prone to storms, or often have issues with your power grid, a whole-house surge protector can be installed at your electrical panel to block surges before they can even reach your appliances.
When Should You Replace Your Surge Protector (and How)?
How often you should replace your surge protector depends on a few factors. In general, you should replace your surge protector every few years. It should also be replaced when the indicator light goes out or after a major power surge.
To replace it, you can simply unplug the old one and plug in the new one, making sure it has the correct rating for your devices. When it comes to the best surge protector features, we recommend looking for one with a high joule rating, usually at least 1,000 joules, as these often have a longer lifespan due to their extra energy. Models with USB ports can also offer flexibility when plugging in varying types of devices.
Need a helping hand? We’re ready when you are. Reach out to In Charge Electric today. We’ll ensure your home surge protection devices are installed correctly and safely.
Protect Your Electronics With Reliable Surge Protection
Whether you’re taking proactive measures to protect your electronics or you’ve experienced device damage in the past, surge protectors can be helpful additions to your home. Investing in high-quality surge protection can keep both you and your electronics safe, no matter what surges may come your way.
Reach out to In Charge Electric for residential electrical services in your area. We’re here to help with solutions catered to your specific needs.