Surge protection for equipment.

Just like the title says... Surge protection for equipment. Is it necessary?

I was reading the manual for my APEX AC and it suggested a surge protector for the diplay unit if a seperate power source was gonna be used instead of the energy bar. This I understood because like most smart people I have invested in surge protectors for other household items like my LCD tv and computer. But for tank equipment is it necessary? Powerheads, ballast, pumps... etc are they sensitive to the point where a power spike would be their death?

Also a side question here in this thread.... does anyone know if the Energy Bar for the APEX surge protected?

(BTW PackLeader I used the search function... No solid answers )

 

I use a surge protector and feel it would be a mandatory item. I think a good power surge could kill anything electric..everything has an overload point......I want the one with light timers built in I just have other things I need to add before getting it. Good Luck
Danny

 

LOL.
Yes, I would use a surge protector at least on the lights, and possibly heaters, as a sudden spike could cause them to blow. Stuff like pumps I would not *think* to be as sensitive.
Also, invest in a good GFCI, since we like to mix the juice with water Surge protector for the equipments life, and GFCI for yours

 

Thanks... i was already going to home depot for my gfci outlet.... now im gonna throw on a surge protector.

 

bump.... wanna see what others say

 

Yes, by all means get a gcfi for your tank. Or more importantly, you.

I don't have a gcfi now, but I had my buddy over tonight that will help me wire my new tank up. We are putting 2 GCFI's in.

 

I definitely know the importance of the GFCI protection (taking care of that this weekend) but..... what about surge protection for my equipment???

 

I have everyting plugged into surge protectors. Some things handle surges better that others, but everything has an overload point. Even if I never get a surge strong enough to hurt anything, it also doesn't hurt anything to have it protected.

I would recommend at least two surge strips. One for any type of filtering pumps like skimmer/canister/sump return and one for everything else. When it's feeding time, you can turn off the strip for the filters and clean out pads or skimmer cup, etc. while the fish eat, the turn it all back on with one switch.

 

I always put electronic equipment on a surge protectior, controllers, electronic ballasts and such. Pumps and motors are not so sensitive and I don't worry about them.

 

I concur.