Ensure ample space for safely powering all your devices with the range of power strips and surge protectors at Ace Hardware, part of our full selection of extension cords and power strips within the lighting and electrical department. Learn more about what makes surge protector power strips different from regular power cords, and which option is best for your needs.
What Is a Surge Protector and Why Do You Need One?
A surge protector safeguards TVs, laptops, phones and other electronics from voltage spikes using components like metal oxide varistors (MOVs) or gas discharge tubes. While it resembles a power strip, not all power strips include surge protection.
Surge Protectors Vs Power Strips: What's the Difference?
Not all power strips are surge protectors, and not all surge protectors are power strips. The table below breaks down how the two compare.
| Feature | Surge Protector | Power Strip |
| Protects against voltage spikes | Yes | Only on select models |
| Cord length | Varies | Often longer, for added reach |
| Outlet count | Multiple outlets | Multiple outlets |
| On/off switch | Common | Common |
| Best for | Electronics needing spike protection | General power distribution within capacity limits |
How Many Joules Do You Need for a Surge Protector?
The amount of protection your surge protector power strip offers is measured in joules. This rating determines how much energy it can absorb before being replaced.
| Device Type | Recommended Joule Rating |
| Basic electronics (lamps, small appliances, chargers) | ~1000 J |
| TVs, gaming consoles, home theater equipment | 2000–4000 J |
Power Strips & Surge Protectors for Outdoor Use
For outdoor displays and setups, choose a weatherproof or outdoor-rated power strip, including yard stake designs built to hold up in the yard or garden. Whether you're powering string lights for Halloween or Christmas, a pre-lit Christmas tree or setting up your home theater for holiday movies, surge protectors and USB power strips are essential. Choose high-joule models with multiple outlets to help keep your home safe and festive.
Power Strips with USB & USB-C Charging Ports
A power strip with a USB port built in offers more charging options for smartphones, tablets, watches and other devices. Find a power strip with USB-C compatibility at Ace to keep your newest devices fully charged, with high joules-rated power strip surge protectors also an option.
How Many Outlets Do You Need for a Power Strip?
Count the devices you need to power at once, then choose a power strip with a few extra outlets to leave room for future additions. Entertainment centers and home office setups often benefit from strips with 8 or more outlets, while a compact setup with just a lamp and charger may only need 4.
Can You Plug a Power Strip into an Extension Cord?
You shouldn't plug a power strip or a surge protector into an extension cord for safety reasons. Doing so might overload them, leading to potentially dangerous consequences. It is best to use each item as intended.
Other Power Distribution Options at Ace
Beyond standard surge protectors and power strips, Ace carries a few specialized options built for specific power needs:
| Option | What It Offers | Best For |
| Wall tap surge protectors & outlet adapters | Zero-cord, direct-plug design that expands outlet capacity right at the wall, with USB ports on some models | Compact spaces where a cord isn't needed |
| Battery backup surge protectors (UPS) | Combines surge protection with a battery that kicks in during an outage | Keeping computers and other sensitive electronics running through short power interruptions |
| Combo extension cords | Flat, low-profile cords with built-in outlets | Routing power under rugs or along walls without a bulky cord |
Shop Power Strip Surge Protectors at Ace
Find an impressive variety of surge protectors and power strips near you at Ace Hardware for indoor and outdoor applications. Then, shop a variety of electrical power cords and accessories like cord reels for an uninterrupted flow of power where you need it.
