Use a surge protector for devices you care about, a small backup battery for the router and computer if you need them to stay on, and unplug valuable equipment during storms or long outages.
Electronics do not like sudden changes in power. A power cut can switch a computer off in the middle of your work, and when power returns it can come back with a surge that damages what is plugged in. A few simple habits and a little equipment reduce the risk.
The two problems
- Outages. The power stops suddenly. Computers can lose unsaved work and, in the worst cases, suffer file damage. Routers and modems drop your internet.
- Surges and spikes. The voltage jumps, often when the power comes back or during a storm. Power supplies, chargers, TVs, routers and other electronics are all at risk.
Use a surge protector
A surge protector, or a power strip with surge protection, sits between the wall and your devices and absorbs small spikes. It is not the same as an ordinary extension cord, which offers no protection. Buy a good-quality one from a reputable maker. Surge protectors wear out over time and after taking a big hit, so replace them and do not assume they last forever. They also cannot always stop a direct lightning strike.
Consider a backup battery
A UPS, or uninterruptible power supply, is a battery that keeps a device running for a short time when the power stops. For a computer, that gives you time to save your work and shut down properly. For a router, a small backup battery can keep your internet on for longer during short outages. It only helps for the devices plugged into it, so choose one that suits what you need to keep running.
Habits that help
- Unplug valuable equipment during storms and when you are away for a long time.
- Save your work often, and turn on autosave.
- Do not overload sockets or daisy-chain extension cords.
- Charge your phone and power bank when you know outages are likely.
- When the power returns, consider waiting a moment before switching everything back on, in case it is unstable.
Protect the router and network
For a business, an outage that takes down the router stops payments and orders. Protect the router, modem and any switches with surge protection, and consider backup power for them. See what a small shop needs for reliable internet.
If something stops working afterwards
If a device will not turn on after a power problem, do not keep trying. Check the plug and the fuse first. Repeated attempts can make damage worse. A dead charger or power supply is often the cause and is cheaper to fix than the whole device.
Frequently asked questions
Is a surge protector the same as an extension cord?
No. An ordinary extension cord only adds sockets. A surge protector also absorbs spikes, and usually says so on the packaging.
Do I need a UPS for my home computer?
It is useful if you often lose work to outages or need your internet to stay on. Otherwise, a good surge protector and regular saving may be enough.
Should I unplug everything during a storm?
It is the safest approach for valuable equipment, especially in a severe storm. A surge protector helps, but unplugging is safer.
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