What is the primary purpose of a surge protector?

The primary purpose of a surge protector is to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes. Voltage spikes, also known as surges, can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, power outages, or sudden changes in electricity usage. These surges can send an excessive amount of voltage into electronic devices, potentially causing severe damage or complete failure. A surge protector works by absorbing or diverting the excess voltage away from sensitive equipment, thereby safeguarding it against these potentially harmful fluctuations.

In electronic systems, protecting devices like computers, televisions, and appliances is crucial to maintaining their function and extending their lifespan. By effectively managing and mitigating voltage spikes, surge protectors play a critical role in electrical safety and device reliability.