Rocketfish Surge Protector

Investing in a quality surge protector is one of the smartest moves you can make to protect your valuable electronics. Power surges and spikes can damage electronics and appliances, sometimes beyond repair. A good surge protector provides a critical line of defense against such hazards.

Rocketfish surge protectors are designed to safeguard your devices and give you peace of mind. With a wide range of models to choose from, this buying guide will help you select the right Rocketfish surge protector for your needs.

Key Features to Look for in a Rocketfish Surge Protector

When shopping for a Rocketfish surge protector, here are some key features to consider:

• Joule rating – This indicates the amount of energy the surge protector can absorb before being damaged. A higher joule rating means better protection. Look for a rating of at least 1800 joules.
• Number of outlets – Choose a model with enough outlets to fit all your devices. Rocketfish surge protectors typically have 6 to 12 outlets.
• Outlet spacing – Make sure there is enough space between outlets to accommodate plugs without blocking other outlets.
• Cord length – A longer power cord will give you more flexibility on where to place the surge protector.
• Protection LEDs – Lights that indicate whether the outlets are grounded and protected.
• Circuit breaker – Resets the surge protector after a power surge or overload.
• EMI/RFI noise filtering – Reduces line interference that can disrupt audio/video signals.
• USB ports – Allows convenient charging of mobile devices.
• Right-angle plug – Makes the surge protector easier to place flush against a wall.
• Flat design – Helps the protector fit better in tight spaces.

Number of Outlets

A key consideration when selecting a Rocketfish surge protector is the number of grounded AC outlets it provides. This will determine how many devices you can connect.

Here are some typical outlet counts you’ll see with Rocketfish models:

• 6 outlets – Good for basic protection of a desktop computer setup or home theater components.
• 8 outlets – Allows you to connect more peripherals and accessories.
• 10 outlets – Ideal for a complete desktop computer system plus two monitors.
• 12 outlets – Accommodates larger home theater setups with multiple components.

Consider both your current and future power needs when choosing a model. Having those extra outlets can really come in handy down the road.

Surge Protection Joule Ratings

The joule rating indicates how much energy the Rocketfish surge protector can absorb before sustaining damage. The higher the joule rating, the better equipped it is to handle a major power surge.

Most Rocketfish surge protectors have a joule rating of 1800 to 3900 joules. Here’s what that means:

• 1800 joules – Can handle a moderate surge event, providing solid protection for basic home electronics and appliances.
• 3000 joules – A common rating for computer-grade surge protectors, withstands larger surges.
• 3900 joules – Very high level of protection, ideal for home theater setups and expensive equipment.

As a general guideline, a joule rating of at least 1800 is recommended for home use. For greater peace of mind, look for 3000 joules or higher.

Comparison to Other Surge Protector Brands

How do Rocketfish surge protectors stack up against other major brands like APC, Belkin and Tripp Lite?

Overall, Rocketfish surge protectors provide very solid construction, performance and features for the price. Key benefits include:

• Heavy-duty electrical components.
• Trusted UL safety certification.
• Clear protection status LEDs.
• Durable metal or high-impact plastic housing.
• Competitive joule ratings matching premium brands.
• Generally more affordable for the protection level.

Compared to no-name surge protector brands, Rocketfish models adhere to stricter safety testing and manufacturing quality standards. You can shop with confidence knowing the products are compliant and built to last.

Use for Home Theaters

With their robust surge suppression capabilities, Rocketfish surge protectors are an excellent choice for home theater applications. Protecting expensive AV components like receivers, speakers and 4K TVs gives real peace of mind.

When using a protector with a home theater, look for these features:

• Higher joule rating (3000+).
• Minimum 6 outlets to plug in all components.
• Added EMI/RFI line noise filtering for clean audio/video signals.
• Right angle plug to fit flush against the wall.
• Flat design to fit in tight spaces.

Ideally choose a model with coaxial cable protection as well. This safeguards cable/satellite connections from surges traveling through the line.

Protection from Lightning Strikes

Can a Rocketfish surge protector protect equipment from a lightning strike? The quick answer is possibly, but with some limitations.

In the event of a direct lightning hit, the massive instantaneous current can easily overwhelm most residential surge protectors. However, Rocketfish models may provide some protection against the effects of nearby lightning strikes.

The key factors are:

• Distance of the strike from your home.
• Joule rating of the protector.
• Type of electrical system and grounding.

If lightning strikes a power pole near your home, a heavy-duty Rocketfish surge protector has a chance of absorbing some of the resulting surge. But hits directly to your building can potentially overload the protector’s circuits.

For maximum protection, installing a whole house surge protector at the main panel is recommended. This provides defense at the electrical service entrance, complementing surge protectors on individual circuits.

How to Install Your Rocketfish Surge Protector

Installing a Rocketfish surge protector is quick and easy. Just follow these steps:

1. Choose a location near an AC outlet, allowing access to the protector’s outlets.
2. Confirm the wall outlet is properly grounded. This ensures proper surge protection.
3. Plug the surge protector directly into the wall outlet – no extension cords.
4. Connect devices to the protector’s outlets. Don’t overload its capacity.
5. Leave space around the protector for air circulation to prevent overheating.
6. Turn on the protector’s switch after everything is connected.

Be sure to reference the status lights periodically to confirm the grounded/protected status. Place the protector near your devices for easy visual monitoring.

What Devices to Use With a Rocketfish Surge Protector

What electronics can you safely plug into a Rocketfish surge protector? Any standard 120V AC-powered devices are compatible, such as:

• Desktop computers and monitors
• Home theater receivers, TVs and speakers
• Gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation
• Printers, scanners and peripherals
• Routers, modems and other network gear
• Media streaming devices like Roku and Apple TV
• Charging stations for phones/tablets
• Office equipment like desk lamps and shredders

Just avoid plugging in high-draw appliances with heating elements (toaster ovens, space heaters, etc.). These can overburden the protector’s internal circuits.

Availability of USB Charging Ports

Many modern surge protectors include built-in USB charging ports, and Rocketfish models are no exception. These ports let you conveniently charge smartphones, tablets and other USB-powered gear.

The number of USB ports varies:

• Basic models may have 2-4 Type A ports.
• Higher-end Rocketfish protectors offer up to 6 ports.
• Some units provide both Type A and Type C ports.

Look for at least 2-4 USB ports if you want the convenience of device charging. But don’t sacrifice key protective features for more USB ports alone.

Checking if Your Rocketfish Protector is Working

Rocketfish surge protectors provide visual indicators that let you monitor their protection status at a glance. Here’s what to look for:

• Protected LED – This light confirms a safe grounded connection and active surge suppression.
• Grounded LED – Illuminates when the electrical outlet is properly grounded.
• Line OK LED – Shows the protector is receiving power from the outlet.

As long as all lights are illuminated, your Rocketfish protector is working properly. If any indicator is off, the surge protection may be compromised.

It’s also wise to periodically test a surge protector using the built-in circuit breaker test button. This verifies internal components are functioning.

Warranty Information

Rocketfish provides the following warranties on its surge protectors:

• Lifetime equipment protection policy – Up to $300,000 connected equipment insurance (U.S. only).
• Limited lifetime product warranty – Warrants the protector against defects in materials and workmanship.

Registering your product is required to activate the connected equipment policy. So be sure to complete the online warranty registration for full coverage.

UL Certification for Safety

All Rocketfish surge protectors are tested and listed under UL 1449 and UL 1363. These certifications verify:

• Safety of the surge protection components.
• Voltage spike suppression meets UL standards.
• Fire safety requirements are satisfied.

The UL mark provides assurance the protector complies with important electrical safety regulations. Beware of non-certified imitator surge protectors.

Choosing the Right Model for Your Needs

With a wide selection available, here are tips for picking the best Rocketfish surge protector for your situation:

• Count total devices needing protection to determine outlet needs.
• Check the joule rating – higher is better for expensive gear.
• Include USB ports for device charging, if desired.
• Select coaxial protection for cable/satellite setups.
• Flat design for tight spaces; right angle plug for flush wall fit.
• Higher joule rating for home theaters and densly packed equipment.

Choosing the protector that has the right features and capacity for your gear avoids issues down the road.

Where to Buy Rocketfish Surge Protectors

Here are some of the best places to purchase Rocketfish surge protection products:

• Best Buy – As Rocketfish’s parent company, Best Buy has the largest inventory of models and frequent sales.
• Amazon – Fast shipping and competitive prices on many Rocketfish protectors.
• Target – Brick-and-mortar stores carry a select range of Rocketfish protectors.
• Walmart – Stocks some of the more affordable Rocketfish protector models.

Online retailers like Amazon do offer convenience. But buying at Best Buy gets you helpful advice from sales staff plus easy exchanges if needed.

Discounts and Deals

Here are some tips for saving money on your Rocketfish surge protector purchase:

• Watch for sales at Best Buy – especially around holidays and back-to-school season.
• Check Amazon for online coupons and limited time discounts.
• Sign up for Best Buy’s Deal of the Day emails to receive special offers.
• Consider open-box/refurbished units from Best Buy Outlet for reduced prices.
• Join My Best Buy for exclusive member savings and perks.

With some strategic timing and planning, you can often score a Rocketfish surge protector for 20-30% off retail pricing.

What Rocketfish Surge Protector Reviews Say

Overall, customer reviews of Rocketfish surge protectors are very positive. Here’s what users highlight:

• Solid protection for the price – better than cheap generic models.
• Easy to install and set up – plug and play operation.
• Secure grip outlets hold plugs tightly.
• Status lights clearly indicate protection levels.
• Robust metal/plastic housing prevents damage.

Negative feedback is rare but includes some reports of defective units or surge failures. Be sure to test and register your protector right away.

Resetting After a Power Surge

After absorbing a major electrical surge, your Rocketfish protector may need to be reset. Here’s how:

1. Unplug devices from the protector and turn off its power switch.
2. Check for any damaged connected equipment before proceeding.
3. Locate the circuit breaker button on the protector and press firmly to reset.
4. Flip power back on and check status lights – should illuminate properly.
5. Test components one at a time by plugging them back in.

If lights stay off or issues persist, the protector may need to be replaced. Contact Best Buy if under warranty.

Using With Computer Equipment

Computers and peripherals are especially vulnerable to surges. A dedicated computer protector like the Rocketfish 8-Outlet Surge Protector is ideal for complete desktop protection.

Features to look for include:

• Minimum 1800 joule rating for computer hardware.
• Outlet spacing allows transformer plugs without blocking.
• Coax protection for modem/router connections.
• Right angle plug is flush with wall surface.
• Cord management spaces to minimize clutter.

Position the protector near the computer setup for easy equipment plugging. Keep those status lights visible!

Expected Lifespan

With proper care and normal usage, a Rocketfish surge protector can be expected to last:

• 5-10 years when used lightly in a home office.
• 3-5 years for moderate duty protecting A/V gear.
• 2-3 years under heavy computer usage with frequent surges.

Higher joule models and those with metal housings tend to last the longest. Just be prepared to replace the protector if those status lights go out.

Surge Protection Indicator Lights

Rocketfish protectors signal live surge protection through the following LED status lights:

• Protected – Confirms active surge suppression is working.
• Grounded – Shows grounded wall outlet connection.
• Line OK – Indicates power is flowing properly.

As long as all lights are on, you can be sure your equipment is safely protected. If any light turns off, replace the protector immediately for continuous coverage.

Be sure to reference our comprehensive Rocketfish surge protector buying guide when choosing the ideal model to safeguard your electronics. Investing in robust surge suppression provides real peace of mind and protects your valuable gear for years to come.