Surge Suppressors and Protectors: What to Look for

• Make sure protectors conform to UL certified safety standards.
  UL 1449 rated protectors conform to rigid requirements set by Underwriters Laboratories.
  
  
• The lower the clamping voltage, the better.
  Clamping voltage is the maximum voltage a protector will pass to your equipment. UL considers 330 volts a minimum. Closer to 120 volts is safer.
  
  
• Faster response time means better protection.
  You’ll want a device that can respond fast when it detects a power surge. This time should be with a few nano (one-billionth) or picoseconds (one-trillionth of a second).
  
  
• More Joules means your equipment is safer.
  The maximum energy your protection can handle will be measured in Joules. You’ll want equipment rated at 400 Joules or above.
  
  
• Leave a light on in the dark.
  Your units should have alarm lights that indicate when the device is functioning and when it needs to be replaced. Make sure these lights are visible when the device is installed.
  
  
• Keep your packaging and receipts.
  Most devices come with some amount of equipment coverage, but you won’t be able to claim a dime unless you have an original sales receipt and product packaging.