Do I need an expensive surge protector for my LCD TV?

[MrMetal_53]

I apologize if this is in the wrong section. I just bought the Westinghouse 37w3 from Costco, and of course I want to make sure that I take the best care of it that I can. I've got normal surge protectors sitting around the house, but I wanted to see if I need the most 1337 one that they make to protect my investment. Since I'm sure that if I went to CC or BB they would tell me that I need the most expensive one, I figured I would ask here first Sorry if this is a dumb question

 

[tony-kun]

Cheap surge suppressors are only good against surges and fluctuations that arise within the power system. If you want to protect against surges caused by lightning, you're going to need a more expensive solution, such as a gas-discharge arrestor. I guess it really depends on how protective you are of your stuff, whether you think it's worth the price. Personally I just use a normal suppressor.

 

[SJetski71]

At these prices it would be hard to beat a Tripp Lite Isobar: http://www.google.com/products?um=1...+lite+isobar&scoring=p&sa=N&lnk=next&start=10

If you have any doubts, do a search and you'll find nothing but glowing reviews, and from people who have owned them for years.

 

[joemama]

I can't suggest a particular model but I've been told that unless you have a high quality (not neccessarily extremely high priced) surge protector then it's best to just plug it straight to the wall. (unless of course you live a house with old/screwy wiring)

 

[gman]

APC is the best IMHO.

 

[MrMetal_53]

So is the opinion here that I should get something with a high energy absorption? Like I said, I really am at a loss here of what to do. I guess I don't really need to protect against lightning surges. I suppose the surge protector would serve two-fold: 1) to protect my new investment and 2) to add more outlets. That should clear up a thing or two

 

[tony-kun]

If you don't care about lightning, I'd suggest buying the best looking suppressor you can get for ~$15. I checked out Walmart the other day, and you can get something with decent energy absorption and convenient features (such as rotating outlets, spaced outlets for wallworts, ethernet/modem protection) at that price. I would never spend $80 on one of those premium Monster suppressors.