Safety devices
Joule rating
A joule rating shows how much surge energy a surge protector can absorb before it fails. A higher number generally means more capacity.
Belkin says joule rating measures a surge protector's capacity to absorb energy over time without failing. A higher rating generally gives better protection. Belkin also notes that a well-built 600-joule unit may outlast an 800-joule unit in a harsh setting, so build quality matters as well as the number.
Joules are only one spec. Clamping voltage shows how soon the device reacts. A point-of-use surge protector uses up capacity with each surge, so replace worn units. See power strips, surge protectors and extension cords.
Related terms
Sources
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