Symptoms
- Devices plugged into the surge protector suddenly lost power
- Small reset switch or button on the strip is popped out or off
- Indicator light on the strip is off or red
Likely causes
- CommonA power surge, such as from a storm or grid eventThe surge protector sacrificed itself to protect your devices, which is exactly what it's designed to do.
- CommonToo many devices drawing too much currentOverloading the strip's rated capacity trips its internal breaker.
- PossibleThe surge protector has reached the end of its protective lifeAfter absorbing enough surges, many strips stop protecting even if they still pass power.
What to do
- Unplug some devices from the strip to reduce the load.
- Press the reset button or switch firmly.
- If power returns, plug devices back in gradually rather than all at once.
- If it won't reset at all, try plugging the strip itself into a different outlet.
- Check if the indicator light shows 'protected' status once reset; some strips keep passing power even after protection has failed.
- Replace the surge protector if it's several years old or has tripped from a significant surge event.
- Consider a whole-house surge protector at the panel if surges happen often, especially after storms.
Tools and parts
Replacement surge protectorSearch: “UL listed surge protector power strip”
When to call a pro
Have an electrician install whole-house surge protection at your panel if surges or lightning are a recurring concern in your area.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.