A power strip combines outlets that dispense power to electrical devices. They come in different styles, including rack-mount, strip, and bench mounts. If you have numerous devices but limited outlets, power strips will come in handy to connect and power several devices simultaneously.
Powers strips are used in offices, homes, data centers, and industrial and health care environments. These are places where power dispensation to several electrical devices is a priority. The typical applications of power strips are connecting network equipment and servers, peripherals and computers, workbench power tools, and entertainment systems.
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While you may face many energy concerns, including high energy prices, choosing a power strip should not be bothersome. However, if you are unfamiliar with the choice, you might have difficulty selecting the right power strip to suit your needs. This piece will unpack the five tips for choosing the right power strip.
1. Number of Outlets
It would be best to consider a flat cord power strip that can support the number of items you want to be plugged in. The number of devices you can plug into a single power strip does not matter when using a power strip. The electrical current being pulled from the device is what matters.
On top of choosing a power strip with as many outlets as possible, it is advisable to consider one with more outlets for future items. It would also help if you kept in mind that transformer plugs are bigger than the standard ones. The good thing is that some power strips are made to fit in with transformer plugs without obstructing neighboring outlets.
2. The Outlet Configuration and Cord Length
Power strips come in different lengths. You can get outlet strips with cord lengths of up to 24 feet. It would be best to determine how far your power strip is needed from the outlet and select the length that will be most applicable. Remember, excessive cord length can be hazardous. Also, ensure you are not running your cord on doorways or in the middle of the room to avoid trips.
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Outlet configurations for power strips vary from one to the other. The designs can include right-angle, rear-facing, end-mounted, and right-facing. In most cases, a standard configuration suffices. This will, however, depend on the application.
3. The Type of Equipment You Have
When selecting a power strip, you should consider the type of equipment. Ensure you go for a strip that will accommodate your equipment and be most suitable for the environment you will be working in. A power strip for medical equipment will differ from one used for a laptop workstation, office equipment, or A/V equipment.
As mentioned earlier, you can connect multiple devices to your power strip. However, you should avoid connecting items that need high energy to operate. For instance, it will not be in your best interest to plug in a heater, coffee pot, freezers, refrigerators, hot plates, portable heaters, air conditioners, and electrical frying pan because they will need high electricity to operate.
The risk of plugging many high-wattage devices into your power strip is overheating or overloading. If you have these devices, use single electric sockets. Also, avoid plugging two power strips with many devices on the same wall outlet to prevent overload.
4. Safety
It would be best if you looked into whether your power strip needs any extra safety features. Many power strips have all-housing metal power strips which are not easily destructible. You can also consider a power strip with a circuit breaker to prevent a system overload.
If you work in an environment where the strip might come in contact with water, a GFCI strip will be the best option. This power strip is made in a way that prevents shock. If the system shorts, the strip will instantly disconnect the electrical circuit.
5. Surge Protection
You can consider a surge protector instead of a power strip. The two, while akin to one another, have different applications. A power strip will offer convenience but very minimal protection. Sometimes, they feature a circuit breaker as a master ON/OFF switch.
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On the other hand, a surge protector adds the element of protection. A surge protector will absorb any current that might damage your electronics. They have a joules rating, indicating the duration they will protect your electronics.
Final Remarks
Now you have the necessary knowledge to help you choose the right power strip. Selecting a power strip should not be problematic, like getting low energy prices or reducing your electrical bill. Apply these tips, and you will be good to go.
Of course, there are many more factors that you can consider, such as USB charging and antimicrobial coating, among others. Examine your needs and compare them to what is in the market before settling on the power strip that best suits your needs.
