Power surges are a silent threat to businesses of all sizes. From lightning strikes to fluctuations in the power grid, these unpredictable spikes in voltage can wreak havoc on sensitive electronic systems. Equipment failure, data loss and costly downtime are all too common outcomes. Even brief interruptions can disrupt operations, damage reputations and lead to financial loss. 

Whether the culprit is a storm, a power grid switching event or machinery within your own facility, safeguarding your infrastructure is essential. That’s where a reliable surge protector comes into play. But not all surge protection devices (SPDs) are created equal and different environments and systems require tailored protection. Here are five types of surge protectors every business should consider. 

  1. DC Surge Protectors 

For businesses operating in outdoor or hazardous environments—such as telecom base stations, wastewater facilities or oil and gas sites—DC surge protectors are a critical line of defense. These units are designed to withstand harsh conditions and are often mounted on poles or walls. Many models feature robust aluminum clamshell enclosures and utilize proven protection methods like silicon avalanche suppression diodes (SASD). Certifications such as UL 497B, Class I/Div II and ATEX ensure compliance and reliability in demanding applications. These certifications indicate that the surge protectors have been rigorously tested for electrical safety, explosion risk and suitability in environments where flammable gases, dust or vapors may be present. 

  1. 12R-75K AC Surge Protectors 

Ideal for panelboards, motor control centers, LED lighting and automation systems, 12R-75K AC surge protectors are built for high-energy environments. They are DIN-rail mounted for easy integration into electrical cabinets. Their configurations typically range from 120/208 Vac to 400/690 Vac to accommodate both standard low-voltage and higher-voltage three-phase power systems used across commercial, industrial and international installations. These SPDs commonly support three-phase Wye or Wye + common mode (CM) protection. Look for certifications that include UL 1449 4th Edition and TAA compliance, which ensure safety and performance in industrial and institutional settings. 

  1. SP PLUS Brick AC Surge Protectors 

SP PLUS brick SPDs are a versatile choice for both indoor and semi-outdoor commercial installations. They support single-phase and three-phase systems (Wye or Delta) and are suitable for wall, hub or bracket mounting. These protectors typically utilize metal oxide varistor (MOV) technology, which provides fast-acting, cost-effective suppression of transient overvoltages, making them ideal for protecting sensitive equipment in frequently switching or surge-prone environments. Models with voltage options from 120 Vac to 600 Vac are commonly used in wastewater treatment, IT networks and lighting systems across schools and industrial campuses. 

  1. Bulkhead Coaxial RF Surge Protectors 

In antenna and radio communication systems, especially those installed outdoors, bulkhead coaxial RF surge protectors are indispensable. These low-PIM units are designed to pass signals cleanly across a wide frequency range, typically from about 698 MHz to 2.7 GHz, while blocking destructive surges. They mount through an enclosure wall or panel, allowing one side to connect to external antennas and the other to internal system equipment, maintaining shielding integrity and ease of grounding. Built to meet UL and hazardous location standards and rated to be waterproof, they protect critical gear from sudden surges and can carry high continuous RF power (500 watts, for instance) without overheating or distorting the signal. Connector types include 4.3-10, 7/16 DIN and type-N—chosen for their excellent performance in high-frequency, high-power RF applications, as well as their durability and low-PIM characteristics. 

  1. Standard Office Power Strips 

For everyday office setups, power strips with built-in surge protection are a simple but essential tool. These devices shield computers, phones, printers and other sensitive electronics from small-scale surges that still carry destructive potential. Available in various joule ratings and outlet counts, they often include USB ports and telephone line protection. Look for models that support 125 to 350 volts, 15 amps and feature cords ranging from 3 to 15 feet to match your workspace needs. 

From heavy-duty industrial systems to standard office gear, protecting your operations from surge-induced downtime is a smart investment. At ShowMeCables, we offer a wide range of certified surge protectors to meet the demands of any application. Our same-day shipping policy and U.S.-based customer service support our customer-focused approach.