What does a surge protector do?

A surge protector plays a crucial role in safeguarding electronic devices from electrical surges, which are sudden increases in voltage. These surges can occur due to various factors, such as lightning strikes, power outages, or issues with the utility company's infrastructure. When a surge occurs, it can potentially damage sensitive electronics connected to the power supply, leading to malfunction or complete failure.

The surge protector contains circuitry designed to divert excess voltage away from these devices, ensuring that only a safe amount of electricity reaches them. This protective mechanism can either absorb the surge, preventing it from affecting the connected devices, or redirect the surge to the ground. Therefore, the primary function of a surge protector is to shield electronics from the risks associated with voltage spikes, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of the equipment and maintaining its operational integrity.