Should a Microwave be Plugged into a Surge Protector?

Several years ago, I moved to a new apartment. It was a cozy little place, perfect for someone like me who enjoys a simple and minimalist lifestyle. As I settled in and began unpacking my belongings, one item in particular caught my attention – my microwave.

Now, I’m sure you’re thinking, what’s so special about a microwave? Well, let me tell you, this was no ordinary microwave. It was the latest model, with all the bells and whistles. It had multiple cooking functions, a sleek design, and a sizable price tag to match. Naturally, I wanted to take every precaution to protect this valuable appliance.

As I contemplated the best way to safeguard my precious microwave, a question popped into my mind – should I plug it directly into the wall or use a surge protector? I decided to do a little research to find the answer, and what I discovered was quite surprising.

Understanding Surges and Surge Protectors

What are surges?

Surges, also known as power spikes, are sudden and temporary increases in electrical voltage. They can be caused by various factors such as lightning strikes, electrical faults, or even fluctuations in the power grid. Surges can be extremely damaging to electronic devices, including microwaves.

What are surge protectors?

A surge protector, on the other hand, is a device designed to protect electronic equipment from voltage spikes. It works by diverting excess voltage away from the connected devices and channeling it into the ground. Surge protectors come in various shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose – to safeguard your precious appliances.

The Pros and Cons of Using a Surge Protector for a Microwave

The Pros

Protection against surges: The most obvious advantage of using a surge protector for your microwave is the added protection against power spikes. By using a surge protector, you are reducing the risk of damage caused by voltage fluctuations.

Convenience: Another benefit of using a surge protector is the convenience it offers. Instead of having to plug and unplug your microwave every time you want to use it, you can simply switch the surge protector on or off.

Additional outlets: Surge protectors often come equipped with multiple outlets, allowing you to plug in multiple devices. This is especially useful if you have a small kitchen with limited wall sockets.

The Cons

Cost: One of the downsides of using a surge protector is the additional cost. Surge protectors can range in price from a few dollars to upwards of $100, depending on the brand and features. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, the potential cost of repairing or replacing a damaged microwave far outweighs the price of a surge protector.

Space: Another drawback is the space required for a surge protector. If you have limited counter space in your kitchen, finding room for yet another device can be a challenge. However, with the variety of compact surge protectors available, this shouldn’t be a major issue.

The Final Verdict

After weighing the pros and cons, I decided that plugging my microwave into a surge protector was the way to go. The added protection against surges, the convenience, and the peace of mind it provided were all worth the slight inconvenience and extra cost.

However, it’s important to note that not all surge protectors are created equal. When choosing a surge protector for your microwave, make sure it is rated for the necessary voltage and has a high joule rating. Joules are a measure of a surge protector’s ability to divert excess voltage. The higher the joule rating, the greater the protection.

In conclusion, while it may seem like a trivial decision, whether or not to plug your microwave into a surge protector is a choice that can have a significant impact on the lifespan of your appliance. By using a surge protector, you can rest easy knowing that your valuable microwave is protected from the unpredictable nature of power surges.