Quick answer
A surge protector guards your appliances against sudden voltage spikes — from lightning, grid switching or faults — that can damage or shorten the life of electronics like TVs, computers, ACs and modern smart devices. As homes fill with sensitive electronics, surge protection has become well worth considering.
Protection can be applied at two levels: a whole-house surge protection device (SPD) fitted in the distribution board by an electrician, and point-of-use surge strips for individual sensitive equipment. The two work well together.
Surge protection complements — but does not replace — good earthing, MCBs and quality house wiring, since an SPD relies on a solid earth to divert the surge. Ask a licensed electrician what suits your home.