Surge protectors are primarily designed to protect appliances and electronics from voltage spikes or surges that can occur in electrical systems. While surge protectors can provide some level of protection, their effectiveness can be compromised when used with ungrounded outlets.
Grounded outlets have a third prong, called the ground prong, which provides a path for excess electrical current to safely dissipate in the event of a surge. Surge protectors typically have a grounding wire that connects to this ground prong to redirect any excess voltage away from connected devices, helping to protect them.
When a surge protector is plugged into an ungrounded outlet, it lacks the necessary connection to safely redirect excess electrical current. Without a proper ground connection, the surge protector's effectiveness in protecting your appliances from electrical surges is significantly reduced. It may still provide basic power distribution and offer some protection against minor surges, but it cannot perform at its optimal level.
If you have ungrounded outlets in your home, it is generally recommended to upgrade them to grounded outlets for optimal safety and surge protection. A qualified electrician can help assess your electrical system and provide guidance on the best course of action to ensure proper grounding.
Keep in mind that surge protectors are not foolproof, and they have their limits. They cannot protect against all types of electrical problems, such as sustained overvoltage or lightning strikes. For comprehensive protection, it's advisable to combine surge protection with other safety measures, such as properly maintaining your electrical system and considering whole-house surge protection systems installed at the main electrical panel.