What is a Spike Buster? How is it different from Spike Guard and Power Strip?
A spike buster, spike guard, and power strip are all related to electrical protection and power distribution, but they serve different purposes.
Understanding spike buster, spike guard, and power strip
A spike buster (or surge protector) is designed to protect devices from voltage spikes that happen on a continuous basis while a spike guard offers surge protection from voltage spikes that happen occasionally. A power strip, on the other hand, simply offers multiple power socket outlets without necessarily providing surge protection. Let’s now understand these products in detail.
1. Spike Guard
A spike guard is designed to prevent voltage spikes, instability, and fluctuations. Power fluctuations could occur due to faulty wiring, lightning strike, thunder, storm, or issues from power suppliers.
A spike guard safeguards your refrigerator, television, washing machine, microwave, air conditioner, water heater, computer, and other electronic devices. It prevents damage against overloading and short circuits. It also improves the life span of the devices by reducing their repair and replacement cost.
You can buy a spike guard extension board which can absorb fluctuations and also plug in several electronic devices at a time.
2. Spike Buster
Spike buster meaning is hardly different from a spike guard. A spike buster also protects your electronic equipment against voltage spikes. However, the power handling capacity may vary between both.
Hence, the choice between a spike guard and a spike buster will depend on the voltage intensity and overload protection you are seeking for your space.
3. Power Strip
A power strip has multiple electrical sockets to plug your devices within proximity. It also comes with a cable on one end that powers the devices from a single socket or outlet in the wall of your space. For example, you can use it to plug a computer, router, and printer together.
A downside of power strips is that it can overheat or overload the gadgets plugged into them in case of any electrical mishap. Moreover, a power strip may not have a surge protection feature.
Tips to Make the Right Choice
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Purpose:-
Determine whether you need multiple sockets, protection against fluctuation, or both benefits.
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Types of Devices:-
Assess the combination of devices you will plug in the spike guard, spike buster, or power strip. For example, audio and video equipment in your home entertainment system are a safe combination but an air conditioner and a water heater might not work well together.
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Absorption Rating:-
Find out the amount of power the spike guard, spike buster, or power strip withstands in a surge.
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Clamping Voltage:-
Be familiar with the voltage at which the spike guard, spike buster, or power strip will get activated.
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Compatibility:-
Check if the spike guard, spike buster, or power strip is compatible with different wall outlets or if it would need an adapter or a converter.
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Number of Sockets:-
Determine the number of electronic devices you need to plug in at the same time.
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Value-Added Features:-
Check if the spike guard, spike buster, or power strip has individual switches, extra cable length, USB, LED, in-built fuse, indicator, warranty, or other add-on features.
Why you need a Spike Buster for your electronics
Power surges can be detrimental to your electronic devices, causing damage or even complete failure. A spike buster acts as a shield, absorbing and diverting excess voltage away from your equipment. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Protection Against Damage:- Prevents costly repairs or replacements of damaged devices.
- Data Loss Prevention:- Safeguards important data stored on computers and other electronic devices.
- Peace of Mind:- Provides reassurance that your valuable electronics are protected from sudden power fluctuations.
How to choose the best Spike Buster
When selecting a spike buster, consider the following factors:
- Amperage Rating:- Ensure the amperage rating of the spike buster is sufficient to handle the combined power draw of your connected devices.
- Joule Rating:- The higher the joule rating, the more energy the spike buster can absorb, offering better protection against severe surges.
- Number of Outlets:- Choose a spike buster with enough outlets to accommodate your devices.
- Additional Features:- Some spike buster models may have additional features like USB ports or surge indicators for added convenience.
- Brand Reputation:- Opt for a reputable brand known for quality and reliability.
Conclusion
A spike guard is a better and safer option than a spike buster and power strip to shield your electronic devices. However, the choice eventually depends on various factors. It is advisable to seek professional consultation from an electrical solution provider for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
Q1. Are spike guards safe?
Yes. Spike guards are designed to absorb voltage surges and fluctuations and keep your devices safe.
Q2. Do surge protectors protect against power spikes?
Yes. Surge protectors can protect your equipment against power spikes caused by electrical storms and lightning strikes.
Q3. How strong is a surge protector?
The strength and performance of a surge protector depends on Joules which ranges from 500 to 3000. The higher the Joules, the stronger the ability of a surge protector to protect your equipment. So, the more expensive, precious, or important your device is, the more Joules you will need.
Q4. Do surge protectors work with AC?
Yes. You can use surge protectors to protect your AC against power surges. However, it is advisable to seek professional consultation to choose the right surge protector.
Q5. How long do surge protectors last?
The lifespan of a surge protector is usually 3 to 5 years. However, it also depends on the usage. The more the usage, the less the lifespan.
The Joules are also a determinant of its lifespan. For example, a 2000 Joules surge protector will stop working as soon as it takes a 2000 Joules hit.
Q6. What is a spike buster, and how does it work?
A spike buster, also known as a surge protector or spike guard, is a device designed to protect your electronic equipment from sudden surges in voltage. It works by absorbing and diverting excess voltage away from your devices, preventing potential damage.
Q7. Can a spike buster protect my computer and laptop?
Yes, a spike buster is specifically designed to protect computers and laptops from power surges, which can cause data loss, hardware damage, or even complete failure.
Q8. Can I use a spike buster with heavy-duty appliances?
While some spike busters can handle heavy-duty appliances, it’s essential to check the amperage rating of the spike buster to ensure it can accommodate the power draw of your devices. If you have high-power appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators, you may need a dedicated surge protector designed for heavy-duty applications.