While experiencing a power outage is never fun, what can make this event even more damaging is if the loss of power results in a loss of or damage to your electronics or other pieces of technology. Luckily, with the right planning and forethought, you can find ways to protect your tech even if you suddenly lose power or experience a power surge.
To show you how this can be done, here are three tips for protecting your tech during a power outage.
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Get A Surge Protector
One of the first and best things you should do to protect your tech at all times is to plug it into a surge protector. Keep in mind, however, that a surge protector and a power strip are different things.
According to Leslie Meredith, a contributor to NBC News, a surge protector creates a barrier between your power source and your electronics in the event that the energy coming to your tech surges. In some cases, having a surge of electricity can cause your tech or electronics to malfunction, fry, or otherwise become damaged. But if you’re plugged into a surge protector, you’re safe from the damage that could have been done by the power cutting out suddenly or the power ramping up suddenly.
Use An Uninterrupted Power Source
In order for a piece of technology to run, it needs a power source. For some items, this power could come from a generator. But for most of the time that you’re using your technology at home, you’ll just be plugged into an electrical outlet. So when the electricity isn’t working due to a power outage, you’ve got to find some other power source to use in order to ensure that your tech is safe.
One great option, according to Eric Escobar, a contributor to QuickAndDirtyTips.com, is to use a UPS, or an Uninterrupted Power Source. With a UPS, you’ll have power continually coming to your electronics or piece of tech for long enough for you to shut it down properly once that power goes out. By doing this, you’ll be able to save your tech from crashing on you.
Disconnect Everything Until The Power’s Back On
Once the power is out at your home or place of business, the best thing you can do to keep your appliances, electronics, and other pieces of technology safe at this point is to disconnect everything from its electric power source.
According to Ready.gov, keeping electronics plugged in when the power is out puts them at risk for additional surges if the power comes on stronger than expected. While using a surge protector can diminish this risk, all of the risk can be squashed if you simply unplug everything until the power is fully restored.
If you’re worried about how a power outage could affect your technology and equipment, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you protect your belongings.
