Is a surge protector needed if espresso machine is on a timer?

[Nickel]

I got off the fence after considering a double boiler or a HX machine and purchased a Vetrano. I want to put it on a timer so it is ready in the morning. I have read that timers can cause problems with electronics, so I was wondering if a surge protector is needed.

This machine is all that I have read about and more. I am very happy with my purchase. The staff at Chris Coffee are great and helped with all my questions.

[Ken Fox]

I got off the fence after considering a double boiler or a HX machine and purchased a Vetrano. I want to put it on a timer so it is ready in the morning. I have read that timers can cause problems with electronics, so I was wondering if a surge protector is needed.

This machine is all that I have read about and more. I am very happy with my purchase. The staff at Chris Coffee are great and helped with all my questions.

I would leave it on all the time, but then that is just me.

Everything I have read indicates that the small surge protectors one can buy for computers and other appliances are completely useless; in order to get really useful surge protection you need to have a house that is truly grounded and a whole house surge protector.

ken

[HunkaBurninLove]

Everything I have read indicates that the small surge protectors one can buy for computers and other appliances are completely useless; in order to get really useful surge protection you need to have a house that is truly grounded and a whole house surge protector.

ken

But won't those small surge protectors be better than nothing?

How much does a whole house surge protector cost (both to buy and install)?

[HB]

I have read that timers can cause problems with electronics, so I was wondering if a surge protector is needed.

I've read similar anecdotal evidence that a timer's "sudden" switching on power causes surges, but I don't see how the internal power switch of your espresso machine is gentler than that of a timer. Maybe an electrician or EE can explain how they differ.

That's a separate question from power surges coming through your house's wiring due to lightening strikes or similar hazards. I agree with Ken, a whole-house surge protector makes a lot more sense than outlet protectors. Our power company regularly sends us proposals along with the electric bill to install one for in the couple hundred dollar range (it's on my to-do list ); however, judging from their other offers, I wouldn't expect them to be price competitive.

[HAL9000]

Good discussion on alt.coffee: Surge suppressor needed with timer?

[edna713]

I got off the fence after considering a double boiler or a HX machine and purchased a Vetrano. I want to put it on a timer so it is ready in the morning. I have read that timers can cause problems with electronics, so I was wondering if a surge protector is needed.

This machine is all that I have read about and more. I am very happy with my purchase. The staff at Chris Coffee are great and helped with all my questions.

NO. not needed. There are plenty of other things in your house snapping off and on that do not need anything.

dave

[kaioslider]

I have my Vetrano on a timer, it was one of the things considered in the design of the machine. As far as a surge protector, I'm no expert, but I don't think the electrics on a standard HX espresso machine are that sensitive; where as GS3 with an onboard digital controller might be? As it happens, my machine is on a long power strip, I installed it for more outlets though, not for surge protection. I've not had any issues.