Power Strips & Surge Protectors (91 items found)

Ensure ample space for safely powering all your devices with the range of power strips and surge protectors at Ace. Learn more about what makes surge protector power strips different from regular power cords, and which option is best for your needs.

What Does a Surge Protector Do?

A surge protector is designed to keep important devices, like televisions, cell phones, laptops and other equipment, protected against voltage spikes that could cause significant damage. Because spikes can happen because of normal power outages or even rare lightning strikes, they prove useful for keeping your electronics and home protected.

They help monitor the voltage in the power line, diverting surges when they happen using metal oxide varistors (MOVs) or gas discharge tubes. While surge protectors and power strips look similar, not all power strips offer protection against electrical surges.

How Many Joules for a Surge Protector?

The amount of protection your surge protector power strip offers is measured in joules. This rating determines how much energy they can absorb before being replaced. Look for ratings of about 1000 joules for basic electronics and between 2000 to 4000 joules for TVs, video games and other home theater equipment.

How Long Do Power Strip Surge Protectors Last?

A surge protector will last anywhere between 3 to 5 years, but many outstanding factors could impact this longevity. Is the surge protector overloaded? Do you live in an area where weather events often affect electricity? Has it experienced surge events? Look for surge protectors with indicator lights to help you know better when a replacement is necessary.

What Is a Power Strip?

Not every power strip is a surge protector. Power strips are designed to distribute power to various electrical devices. They offer multiple outlets that allow you to quickly plug in several devices simultaneously in a specific location. With a slight extension, they offer more versatility for reaching outlets behind couches and TV stands than outlet adapters do. If the devices they are powering do not use much energy and you are not overloading, a power strip may suffice. Many models feature an on/off switch that makes it easy to power on or off all connected devices.

USB Power Strips

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.

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.

Shop Power Strip Surge Protectors at Ace

Find an impressive variety of surge protectors and power cords for indoor and outdoor applications at Ace Hardware. Then, shop a variety of electrical power cords and accessories like cord reels for an uninterrupted flow of power where you need it.