A lightning strike to a powerline, industrial power grid outages, the power cycles of large appliances, faulty wiring—these are all some of the issues that can cause power surges. Luckily, you can invest in a quality surge protector. Not only is it essential for protecting valuable electronics, but it also helps prevent potential data loss and equipment damage.

Surges in electrical power can damage equipment as the increased energy overheats wires and electrical components. Even small surges can take a toll over time. And, all kinds of electrical equipment are vulnerable to damage, from your television or computer monitor to lighting and AC units.

That’s where surge protectors (not to be confused with simple power strips) come in handy. They are essentially surge suppressors. If there is a sudden spike in electricity, surge protectors will take the hit and protect your equipment. So, purchasing a surge protector is not only a wise choice, but it’s also cost-effective, especially when you consider the expense of replacing damaged appliances.

You may think of a surge protector when you are setting up a home office and trying to make the most of your workspace, but did you know that almost any room in your house can benefit from having one? These days, important electronics, like smartphones, laptops and tablets get plugged in everywhere. You’ll also want to plug your major appliances into surge protectors as well.

When choosing the best surge protector for you, look at joule ratings. Higher joule ratings signify better protection for your devices during catastrophic power spikes. A 600 joules rating can be sufficient for basic electronics like cell phones and laptops. But, for higher-end gadgets like gaming consoles, advanced computer systems or entertainment centers, you’ll want a surge protector that’s rated above 2000 joules.

Considering the joules surge protector rating you want and how many outlets will benefit you the most is crucial. A USB port surge protector, for example, will offer the added convenience of charging mobile devices directly, eliminating the need for separate adapters. So, the best surge protector for you will be one that you’ll continue to get the most out of for years to come.