Best Power Strips

of Feb 2025

Valuable Tips to Consider When Choosing Power Strips Products

Power strips are great electrical accessories that allow you to plug in multiple electronic devices simultaneously. These products come in handy when you need to power your computer, TV, phone charger and other electronic devices at the same time. However, not all power strips are created equal. Some have better features than others and some may pose grave danger to your electronics as well as your property. Therefore, it is essential that you pay keen attention to the following tips when choosing power strips.

1. Surge Protection Features

Surge protection is one of the key features that you should look out for when selecting a power strip. A surge is any sudden increase in electrical current in your home, which is why power surges can damage your electronic devices. Surges can occur from electrical storms, faulty wiring, and power outages. Surge protection features help to prevent the risk of fire and damage to your electronics by diverting excess voltage into the ground wire.

Tip:

When shopping for power strips, look for those with a surge protection feature that will meet the voltage requirements of your electronics, and be sure to check the Joules rating. The higher the Joules rating, the more protection your gadgets will have from power spikes and surges.

2. Number of Outlets

The more outlets a power strip has, the more devices you can plug in at the same time. The number of outlets you need depends on the number of electronic devices you own and the number of electrical outlets available in your home. However, having too many electronic devices plugged into a single outlet can overheat them, leading to short circuits or even fires.

Tip:

Before purchasing a power strip, count the number of appliances you need to plug in and choose a power strip that has a sufficient number of outlets for them. Additionally, if you want to join multiple power strips together, make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on how to do so safely without overloading the power consumption.

3. Cord Length and thickness

The length and thickness of the cord determine how far away the power strip can be positioned from the wall outlet. A cord that is too short may not reach the outlet, while a cord that is too long could be a tripping hazard or damage from furniture or wear and tear. In addition, the thickness of the cord determines the amount of power that the power strip can handle without overheating.

Tip:

When selecting power strips, choose one with a cord that is long enough for your needs and thick enough to handle the amount of electricity that you plan to use. Also, ensure that the cord is not twisted, kinked or coiled, as this may cause overheating.

4. Mountable or Portable

Some power strips are designed to be mountable to walls, while others are portable for ease of use. Mountable power strips are ideal for fixed locations, where they can be installed out of the way, using screws or other mounting hardware. Portable power strips, on the other hand, are ideal for situations where you need to move quickly from one place to another, such as meetings or workshops.

Tip:

Determine if you need a mountable or portable power strip for your specific needs. Consider the electrical outlet location, the layout of your space or room, and your usage pattern in your day-to-day work activities, to decide which type of power strip will be your best fit.

5. USB ports and Other Features

USB ports are a common feature of power strips that allow you to charge your electronic devices without the need for an adapter. Other features include power switches, illuminated outlets, and cable management systems that make organizing cables easier. The more features a power strip has, the more versatile it is in terms of usage.

Tip:

Consider which additional features you may prioritize on your power strip. For example, finding a power strip with a mix of AC outlets and USB ports can make charging your mobile devices more convenient. Other features that are beneficial include an indicator light to show your devices are grounded, or a switch to turn off the power strip when not in use or if you're heading out from home.

Conclusion

Choosing power strips can seem like a simple task, but it can be a technical challenge that requires careful consideration to ensure safety and efficiency in your devices. By following the tips above, you'll be certain to use your power strips effectively and minimize the risk of damage to your electronics, and other safety hazards that could arise. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to contact a professional or qualified electrician who can recommend an ideal power strip type, perfect for your needs and budget.