Few things can be more devastating to sensitive electronic equipment than a high voltage surge entering your home through power lines. There are many possible causes of power surges, but the most common cause is lightning. If lightning should strike a power transformer near your home, the resulting surge of electric current could be high enough to fry every electronic component you have plugged into a power outlet. Every home is at risk, but those of us living in areas that experience frequent thunder storms are even more susceptible.
Most of you know how important it is to protect computers from surge damage, but what about your expensive sewing and embroidery machines? Have you ever considered protecting them from surge damage? Today’s top of the line computerized sewing and embroidery machines carry a higher price tag than most new computers. It makes perfect sense to protect them from damage too.
If you agree that this protection is important, there are two very good options to consider. Both are relatively small investments when compared to the cost of the equipment they are protecting. The first option would be a good quality surge protector. Surge protectors normally look similar to standard multi-outlet power strips, but they have surge protection circuitry built in.
When shopping for a surge protector, be sure to purchase the highest quality possible. Expect to pay $25.00 to $40.00 for a good quality surge protector. Bargain surge protectors in the $10.00 range really do little in the way of preventing power surges from reaching your equipment. Like most things, you get what you pay for.
The second and best option would be to purchase an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) for your machines. Not only does a UPS offer excellent surge protection, it also provides battery backup should you experience a blackout or brownout.
If you lose power, a battery backup will keep your machine running without a hitch for up to 20 minutes or more depending on the capacity of your UPS. You may have enough time to complete a design sew out, or stop in a place that allows you to pick up where you left off easily when power returns.
Prices for a good quality UPS start around $60.00. If you intend to run multiple machines on a single UPS make certain the unit you purchase has adequate capacity. Your dealer should be able to offer some guidance if you are uncertain which UPS to buy.
A good UPS is much more than just another gadget to add to your sewing room. It’s some of the best and least expensive insurance you can buy for your machines. A UPS can help prevent costly repairs or replacement due to power surges and high voltage spikes. Some UPS manufacturer's even include loss protection should the device fail to prevent equipment damage as a result of a power surge. Be sure to read and fully understand the warranty information that comes with the unit you purchase.
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