It’s great when electronics function properly, making life better, easier and fun. But too many of them running at once can brownout a town. How can we block surges and spikes? Try using simple suppressors. Surge protectors plug in the wall and have multiple outlets for all your electronics. When power is interrupted and then snaps back on, they shut down to protect sensitive transistors and microprocessors -- and, your equipment is saved. But not all suppressors are created equal. There are things you should know: Blocking ability is rated in joules. Get 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're failing. 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.