Surge Protector vs Extension Cord: What’s the Difference?
Surge protectors and extension cords are two commonly used electrical accessories in households and offices. While both serve similar purposes, they differ in their functionalities. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between surge protectors and extension cords.
What is a Surge Protector?
A surge protector is a device designed to protect your electronic devices from voltage spikes, surges, or spikes in electrical current. It works by diverting excess electricity from a power surge or spike and instead sends it to the ground. Surge protectors protect your devices from damage caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and electrical storms.
Surge protectors come in different capacities and types. They range from small plug-in models to large models for whole-house protection. Some advanced surge protectors come with additional features such as built-in USB ports or Ethernet ports.
What is an Extension Cord?
An extension cord is a flexible cable used to extend the range of an electrical outlet. It is designed to increase the reach of a power supply to a device that is located far from the electrical outlet. Extension cords come in various lengths, gauges, and types. They are available in indoor and outdoor models with different capacities and ratings.
However, extension cords are not designed for prolonged use or high-power-consuming devices. Overloading an extension cord can result in overheating, fire, or damage to your devices. It is recommended to use extension cords only for temporary purposes and not as a permanent power source.
Differences between a Surge Protector and an Extension Cord
The key difference between a surge protector and an extension cord is their functionality. While both devices extend the reach of an electrical outlet, a surge protector also protects your electronic devices from voltage spikes and surges caused by electrical inconsistencies. An extension cord, on the other hand, serves as a temporary solution for increasing the reach of an electrical outlet.
It is essential to note that you should never use an extension cord as a substitute for a surge protector. While extension cords may seem like a cheaper option, they are not designed to provide the electrical protection that electronic devices require. It is recommended to invest in a good-quality surge protector for the safety of your electronic devices.
If you’re looking for an electrical accessory to extend the reach of an electrical outlet, choose an extension cord. However, if you are looking to protect your electronic devices against electrical surges and voltage spikes, opt for a surge protector. Remember to never use an extension cord in place of a surge protector, as it could result in damage to your devices or potentially start a fire.
