It is generally recommended to plug a TV and other sensitive electronic devices, such as computers and home theater equipment, into a surge protector rather than directly into the wall outlet. Here's why:
Surge Protection: A surge protector is designed to protect your electronic devices from sudden voltage spikes or power surges that can occur during electrical storms or due to other reasons. These surges can damage or destroy electronic components within your TV or other devices, leading to costly repairs or replacements. A surge protector absorbs and diverts excess voltage away from your devices, providing an added layer of protection.
Multiple Outlets: Surge protectors come with multiple outlets, allowing you to connect several devices to a single protector. This is especially useful for setting up a home entertainment system where you might have a TV, gaming console, soundbar, streaming devices, and more. By using a surge protector, you can centralize and protect all these devices at once.
EMI/RFI Filtering: Many surge protectors also feature Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) filtering. These filters help reduce electrical noise and interference, improving the performance and longevity of your electronic devices.
Convenience: Surge protectors often have features like power switches, indicator lights, and spaced-out outlets for larger plugs. They make it easier to manage the power supply to your devices and provide an added level of convenience.
When choosing a surge protector, consider its joule rating (higher joules offer better protection), clamping voltage (lower is better), number of outlets, and whether it offers EMI/RFI filtering. It's also essential to ensure the surge protector can handle the power requirements of your TV and other devices.
While surge protectors provide valuable protection, they are not foolproof. For the best protection against severe lightning storms or power surges, consider using a whole-house surge protector installed at your main electrical panel in addition to the individual surge protectors for your electronic devices. This provides an extra layer of defense for your entire home's electrical system.