Lem wrote in message
...
Are surge protectors on the main power supply actually needed in
the UK?

here in the UK we have few overhead mains power lines and have a
relatively steady mains power supply when compared to many other
countries (including the US).

However there seem to be very many surge protector products
advertised for sale in the UK (Argos, Maplins, etc).

I am quite sure it is not bad practice to use a surge protector but
in fact I have never known anyone who has has a problem from a
surge coming in through the power supply.

So personally I don't bother using a surge protector on my PC.

Am I being too complacent?

It all depends on your tolerance of risk.

It doesn't have to hit a power pole. A friend of mine lost 2 PCs when
lightning hit a tree next to her house, then jumped to the house (knocking
some siding off in the process).

Surge protectors are cheap. Or just back up your data regularly.

--
greywolf42
ubi dubium ibi libertas
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