Siemens’s premium FS140 whole-house surge protector is hands-down the best choice if you live in a region with frequent power outages, like the Southeast or parts of Texas. This Type 2 SPD can ...

A whole-house surge protector costs anywhere from $80 to $300, in addition to the cost for a licensed electrician to install it for you. "This is not a DIY project," said Goranson.

Surge protector: A surge protector with six outlets and a 4-foot cord costs about $15 to $20. A simple outlet adapter surge protector with two plug-ins (and no cord) costs about $10.