Power surges and power spikes can occur at anytime. Unfortunately they can damage the electronics inside the control unit of your backup or combination system. Protect your backup or combo system with a surge protector, a device that suppresses power surges, which can be purchased at any electronics or hardware store. Surge protectors are rated in joules—at least 1500 joules is recommended for all Basement Watchdog backup systems and also for the backup pump in our combination systems. Do not plug the primary pump into a surge protector.