What To Know About Power Strips

Power strips are something that you find in many homes and businesses across the US. They are basically a block of electrical outlets that can distribute AC power to multiple devices at one time. They can be used to power anything ranging from a computer to appliances, power tools, and nearly everything in between. While you're most likely familiar with power strips, there are a few thing that you should keep in mind before you buy them. Here are three things to know when you buy power strips.

Surge Protectors Vs. Power Strips

If you are looking into power strips, it can be helpful to know the difference between power strips and surge protectors. They are both similar products, but they do differ in some important ways. Power strips have multiple outlets and act as an extension of the wall outlet. Surge protectors also have multiple outlets and are an extension of the wall outlet, but they also offer protection from power spikes. This level of protection varies depending on the surge protector, but it can help protect sensitive electronics and appliances. If you are looking for protection against power surges, you will want a surge protector. 

Costs Can Vary

When it comes to power strips, prices can vary significantly. Your costs will depend on the features of the power strip, how many outlets it offers, and other factors such as whether or not it offers any power surge protection. Power strips are now more advanced than ever, and there are also smart models on the market. In general, power strips are very affordable with most models costing under $50. You can also buy power strips online and also in stores across the country. They are very accessible and easy to find.

They Can Help You Save

One thing that you may not be aware of when it comes to power strips is that they can help you save on energy costs. Whenever you have an appliance or electronic device plugged in, it can continue to use energy when it's in standby mode. In fact, this can account for 5 to 10 percent of energy use in the average US household. Using a power strip with on and off switches can help. Power strips allow you to turn off multiple devices at once that may be using power without you knowing.

When it comes to power strips, there are a few things to know. First, power strips and surge protectors are similar, but surge protectors offer added protection against power spikes. Costs of power strips can vary, but most are under $50. These strips can help you save on your energy bills by making it easy to turn off energy using devices when you are not using them. 

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