A $20 protector from Staples (similar to a $10 protector from WalMart; similar to a $30 or $90 protector from other sources) does not claim to protect from typically destructive surges.
Another completely different device (unfortunately also called a protector) does protect even from direct lightning strikes. A technology proven even 100 years ago.
Unfortunately, most consumers don't know the difference between so many different products using the same name. And don't know that direct lightning strikes cause no damage to facilities that use a superior and less expensive solution.
Many even fall for myths about 'no MOVs'. Forget what is relevant - how Ben Franklin made direct lightning strikes irrelevant. The same concepts are why your telco's $multi-million switching computer suffers maybe 100 surges with each storm. And no damage. How often is your town without phone service for four days after each thunderstorm? Never? Exactly. Because protection (that the $20 Staples product does not claim) means protection from typically destructive surges.
Protection means hundreds of thousands of joules dissipate harmlessly and distant from appliances.
An effective protector means no damage even to the protector. Costs about $1 per protected appliance. Is based in concepts that make Franklin's lightning rod so effective. And means nobody even knew a surge existed.
Protectors adjacent to appliances (ie $20 per appliance) do not claim that protection. If in doubt, then post manufacturer spec numbers from each recommended product that claims protection.
Another completely different device (unfortunately also called a protector) does protect even from direct lightning strikes. A technology proven even 100 years ago.
Unfortunately, most consumers don't know the difference between so many different products using the same name. And don't know that direct lightning strikes cause no damage to facilities that use a superior and less expensive solution.
Many even fall for myths about 'no MOVs'. Forget what is relevant - how Ben Franklin made direct lightning strikes irrelevant. The same concepts are why your telco's $multi-million switching computer suffers maybe 100 surges with each storm. And no damage. How often is your town without phone service for four days after each thunderstorm? Never? Exactly. Because protection (that the $20 Staples product does not claim) means protection from typically destructive surges.
Protection means hundreds of thousands of joules dissipate harmlessly and distant from appliances.
An effective protector means no damage even to the protector. Costs about $1 per protected appliance. Is based in concepts that make Franklin's lightning rod so effective. And means nobody even knew a surge existed.
Protectors adjacent to appliances (ie $20 per appliance) do not claim that protection. If in doubt, then post manufacturer spec numbers from each recommended product that claims protection.