Surge Suppressors-- Turn off or unplug?

[wheatbean]

Hello! I've searched the memories, but couldn't find any information re: surge suppressors and energy use. I'm trying to unplug all electronics when not in use, but was wondering if one has to unplug the surge suppressor-- or is turning it off enough to stop any extra energy usage?

Thanks!

Comments

[misfit4leaf]

You don't need to unplug it, you can turn it off. The surge suppressor/protector doesn't use any signifigant energy itself, it's the devices plugged into it that will. A surge protector is simply designed to protect your electronics from getting a rouge zap and becoming ruined.

[cideon]

So am I right in understanding that it should be clicked on if there is a storm or other suspicion of need for its use, right?

[misfit4leaf]

If all your electronics are off already, no. If they are on, they should already be plugged into the surge protector and the surge protector on. Power surges happen all the time, not just during storms. I've known people who've had stereos, computers, etc. blown out because of guys working on electric lines down the road. The amount of power that the surge protector itself uses is negligible (i don't think i spelled that right), so if all your devices are plugged in but off, you're not going to be using enough power for it to matter. For that matter, if you have all of your electronics plugged in and off, you can turn off the surge protector too, if you don't want to be using that negligible amount of power.

[wheatbean]

Thanks very much :)

[xemcats]

My nerd A/V Tech partner says that turning it off should be plenty due to the reason the user above mentioned. =o)

[wheatbean]

Thank you! :)