Quck answer
If your power strip has experienced a power surge, there are some signs to look for. Firstly, check for any visible damage, such as scorch marks or melted plastic. Additionally, if the power strip is not working or certain outlets are not functioning, it may indicate a power surge. Another clue is if any devices connected to the power strip are not working properly or have been damaged. It’s important to note that power strips have surge protection features, so if the surge was significant, it may have exceeded the power strip’s capability to protect. In such cases, it is advisable to replace the power strip.
Power strips are useful for connecting multiple devices when wall outlets are scarce. However, these strips have limitations. A power surge can negatively impact both the power strip and the devices plugged into it.
Surge Protectors vs. Power Strips
A surge protector has a circuit breaker or fuse that will trip if a power spike exceeds the maximum voltage of the unit. It has a label indicating the maximum voltage it can handle. If there are no numbers on the box or unit, it’s a power strip that cannot protect your electronics from surges.
A power strip is a multi-outlet extension cord. Plug expensive electronics, such as computers, stereos, and televisions, into a high-quality surge protector to safeguard them from damaging power spikes.
Causes of Power Surges
Power surges have various causes, ranging from the refrigerator compressor or air conditioner kicking on to electrical spikes when power returns after an outage. Surge protectors can shield your valuable electronics from small spikes, but a massive power surge, such as a lightning strike, can cause the surge protector to blow out. Unplug electronics during lightning storms to avoid damage.
Examine Your Electrical Devices
A small power surge can cause a momentary outage, or a “power blink.” Your electric alarm clock display may go blank, or the microwave clock may reset itself to 12:00 and flash until you reset the time. These outages help protect electrical systems by preventing damaging power spikes.
A surge protector may produce a clicking noise, indicating small power surges caused by household appliances turning on and off, such as a blender or coffee pot. The unit prevents power surges from harming your devices.
Inspect the Outlet
If the overhead lights are on but the power strip and connected devices are off, check the outlet. Plug a lamp into the outlet. If it doesn’t work, the outlet is the problem. Unplug the power strip and examine the circuit at the main breaker box.
If the circuit trips again, unplug everything and reset the breaker. The issue may be too many devices plugged in simultaneously, a single device tripping the breaker, or a worn-out power strip.
Too many devices on the same circuit can cause power surges as they cycle on and off. Installing additional outlets in the room can be a long-term solution. Add one or more new breakers in the box to accommodate your electrical devices. Additionally, add dedicated circuits for high-draw devices, such as air conditioners and refrigerators.
Perform a Visual Check
Examine and smell the power strip. Burn marks, melted plastic, crackling noises, sparks when plugging something in, or a hot smell indicate that the power strip is not safe.
Power strips are intended for short-term use. If your power strip is more than two or three years old or malfunctioning, dispose of it and obtain a new power strip or surge protector. Repeated electrical surges can damage or wear out the electrical connections in your power strip and eventually harm your devices.
How to Reset a Surge Protector
First, make sure that the surge protector is turned on and locate the reset button. Press the reset button, and if it doesn’t work or keeps tripping, unplug the power strip.
If the surge protector has a fuse, unscrew the cover and check the fuse. If it’s burned out, replace it with the same size and wattage fuse. Never use a higher-rated fuse as it could damage your electronics or cause a fire.
When to Replace the Surge Protector
If the reset button keeps tripping even though the fuse is not burned out, consider replacing the unit with a new power strip or surge protector. The old unit may not be capable of handling multiple electrical items or high-draw appliances like heaters, portable air conditioners or hair dryers. It’s advisable to plug high-draw or major appliances directly into a wall outlet instead of using a surge protector.
FAQ
1. How can I tell if my power strip has experienced a power surge?
If your power strip has experienced a power surge, there are a few signs you can look out for. Firstly, check if the power strip’s indicator light is off or flickering. This could indicate that the surge protection has been activated. Additionally, if your devices connected to the power strip suddenly stop working or restart, it could be a sign of a power surge. Another indicator is if there is a burning smell coming from the power strip or if you notice any visible damage, such as melted plastic or blackened sockets. In such cases, it is advisable to replace the power strip to ensure the safety of your devices.
2. Can a power surge damage my devices even if I have a power strip?
While power strips with surge protection are designed to prevent damage to your devices during power surges, it is not guaranteed that they will provide 100% protection. Some power strips have a limited surge protection capacity, and if the surge exceeds this capacity, it may still damage your devices. Additionally, older power strips or those that have been subjected to multiple power surges may become less effective in providing protection over time. It is recommended to regularly check the surge protection capabilities of your power strip and replace it if necessary to ensure the safety of your devices.
3. How can I protect my devices from power surges if I suspect my power strip is not providing enough protection?
If you suspect that your power strip is not providing sufficient protection against power surges, there are a few steps you can take to protect your devices. Firstly, consider investing in a higher-quality power strip with a higher surge protection rating. Look for power strips with features such as automatic shutdown or resettable circuit breakers, as these provide additional protection. Another option is to use individual surge protectors for your most sensitive devices, such as computers or entertainment systems. Additionally, it is always a good idea to unplug your devices during severe thunderstorms or when you anticipate a power outage to minimize the risk of damage from power surges.