It's great when electronics function and run, making life better, easier and more fun. But, too much at once can brown out a town. And storms cause blackouts when trees fall down. Electronics are at risk when power comes back a little too briskly. So how can we block those surges and spikes? Easy, with simple suppressors. Surge protectors plug in the wall and have multiple outlets for all your electronics. Then, when power is interrupted and snaps back on, they shut down to protect sensitive transistors and microprocessors; your equipment is saved. But not all suppressors are the same. There are things you should know. Blocking ability is rated in joules -- 1900 or higher. Clamping voltage is the point it shuts down, and lower is better. Good ones are 330 or less. Over time, suppressors wear out. Better ones have lights and alarms to tell you when they do. Finally, read the box thoroughly and ask lots of questions before you buy to get all the protection you want and need. And that's the On The House tip for today.