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Surge Protector Question

post #1 of 4
2/29/08 at 10:39pm
Thread Starter 
Based on advice received from the forum here and also based on advice from the installer who put my TV up on the wall, the outlet that I had installed was a recessed outlet. Right now, the power cord for the TV is plugged directly into the wall. At the time the install was being done, I had purchased from Circuit City a 2-outlet monster surger protector (that was what was recommended by the sales person). The installer looked at this surge protector and said that it wouldn't fit into the outlet.

Another product that has been recommended is a larger monster home theater surge protector which would sit on the floor. Having that would mean that the power cord would run down the wall and be visible. I like the setup I have right now with the cords being hidden.

Did I make a wrong decission to have a recessed outlet put in? What options do I have for a surge protector? I would like to not have my TV damaged from power surges.
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post #2 of 4
3/1/08 at 6:55am

Re: Surge Protector Question

If you truly want to protect your set from power surges and fluxuations, then you really need a "Power Line Conditioner". They're about the size of a moderately large UPS.

The devices you are contemplating are actually spike protectors and do nothing if the power line rises to 140VAC or drops to 80VAC (for examples). In my region of the country, these are the most damaging forms of storm damage. If you found a protector that clamps to 135VAC, then it might provide some protection. If it doesn't clamp until 300VAC, then it's pretty useless for surges: spikes - yes, surges - no.
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post #3 of 4
3/1/08 at 12:43pm
Thread Starter 

Re: Surge Protector Question

Those devices that I mentioned are what have been suggested when I have gone into an electronics store and asked about surge protection for the TV. I understand now from the reply that those are not true surge protectors.

As far as a power line conditioner, is that going to allow me to keep the cords hidden as they are or will it be necessary to have the cords running down the wall?
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post #4 of 4
3/2/08 at 6:46am

Re: Surge Protector Question

There's a huge difference of opinion between retailers/manufacturers and technicians. (I've been a tech for 35+ years but there are very few of us left). Most of the modern TVs have the exact same devices built into the set already, as are present in these so-called "surge protectors. (MOVs, line chokes, and spark-gaps)

There was a 6 - 9 month period when all of the "surge protectors" in the market changed their names to "spike protectors". Then they all changed their names back again. (probably after a pending gov't crackdown disappeared)

The only way you're going to hide a power line conditioner is in another room. (or in the cabinet that houses the tuner/recorder/cable/satellite boxes. Fancy home theater setups often have dedicated power line runs that incorporate conditioning with the protection devices located (and hardwired) in the power supply source room.
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