Surge Protector Manufacturers

Surge Protector Manufacturers

Recently, I attended the 1998 National Hardware Show in Chicago, Illinois. I saw numerous surge suppressor vendors displaying product. Most of the suppressors were low powered units. I was shocked to see some of these inadequate units being marketed as OK for computers and such. They simply had way too few joules to do any good. I have listed below just some suppressor manufacturers / sellers (Sears).

You may find a great surge suppressor on a store shelf that I have not listed. You are looking for four things as far as I am concerned: A joule rating near or in excess of 2,000, a UL 1449 clamping voltage of 330 or less, an audible and visible alarm if the suppressor has been exhausted, and a generous, enforceable connected equipment warranty.

You should also read the fine print on many of the packages. Some manufacturers will replace their units if they fail in the field. All you need to do is make a simple phone call. You may need to keep some paperwork. If you are organized, this should be an easy task. Pay attention to the length of the surge suppressor power cord. Some come with a generous length such as 6 or more feet. This can come in very handy. Look for surge suppressors that protect your phone equipment and cable TV equipment as well. Call the following manufacturers and get some literature right now!

• American Power Conversion (APC)
  877-272-2722
• Belkin
  800-223-5546
• Pacific Electricord
  310-532-6600
• Panamax (Whole House Surge Protector)
  800-472-5555
• Power Sentry
  800-852-4312
• Sears
  Simply drive to your local Sears store!

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