A test engineer at my office reminded me to
use a surge protector on appliances.
If your appliance has a computer control, use a surge protector. This is true for your TV, computer, radio, washer, microwave, gas stove with digital control, refridgerator... If you see any kind of digital readout get a surge protector. And make sure it can handle the load. Dryer and electric stove would be difficult to install a surge protector since they run off 220/240V
My new washer is plugged into a surge protected outlet.
My computer is plugged into a "line conditioner" it protects against surges from lightening strikes and from brown outs.
My fridge which will be here next week will be plugged into a surge protected outlet.
Microwave is also surge protected...
And down the list it goes. For the money, its well worth it.
my public service announcement.