In making a Power Protection strategy there are two maxims to observe they are dedicate and isolate.

While protection at the main board provides “broad brush” protection from outside influences and will reduce the impact of a Surge, it is not likely to capture and reduce line noise or be effective with Spikes produced inside the barrier (Moat). Hardwired protection is worth consideration as part of an overall protection strategy, and in the long term where you own the installation can be cost effective (your home or unit not rented).

But note that on its own Surge protection is not effective in dealing with events like Phase loss or Slow Average Fluctuations that result in Over Voltage or Under Voltage (Brownout).

So where to start?
1. Identify the products that are most at risk in your home or office, the “Mission Critical” areas, implement protection now and rate the other appliances down from there.
2. Make a conscious decision about a power protection and risk reduction strategy that you can build on, without throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
3. As you buy new equipment budget to protect the new equipment as part of the planned spend.

If you have a bodyguard and the bullets are flying, where would you like your bodyguard? In front of you or standing beside you? For best protection the protection should be directly between the AC mains general power outlet (GPO) and the nominated protected equipment.

Protection can be commenced with a single outlet filter, later complemented by a PowerGuard and expanded with a Multiple Outlet Power Strip, build your strategy from the inside outwards. What is important, is to select the best dedicated protection you can afford, do not go unprotected, that is the most expensive option.

In the event of a major power related disturbance have protection that affords the best capability to protect equipment from the threat of power related damage. Home Contents Insurance is your safety net, not the solution.