Install an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)

A UPS combines surge protection with battery backup, keeping critical devices running during blackouts and brownouts long enough for a safe shutdown. Essential for computers, home servers, and network equipment where sudden power loss means lost data.

Steps

1. Size the UPS: Add up the wattage of devices you need to protect and choose a UPS rated above that total. A 600-1500 VA unit covers most home office setups.
2. Connect critical devices: Plug your computer and monitor into the battery-backed outlets on the UPS.
3. Use surge-only outlets: Plug peripherals like printers and speakers into the surge-only outlets if available.
4. Install monitoring software: Most UPS units include software that triggers automatic safe shutdown when battery runs low during an extended outage.

Tips

• Test the UPS battery annually — batteries typically last 3-5 years before needing replacement
• Never plug a laser printer into the battery-backed outlets; their high startup draw can overload the UPS