power conditioner. Are they really needed?

[bluemecha]

I took back a faulty PSU to the local computer store and the first thing he asked me was, "Do I use a power conditioner and power surge protection?"
I said no. I have never used one ever. I have had a computer for around 25 years. (Not the same one)
So the he tried to sell me one.

When the PSU stopped working, other devices like my speakers, printer and monitor were plugged in to the same extension lead and they were all fine.
Also the computer down stairs which was on at the same time was fine.

I pretty sure PSU's a designed to be just plugged in to wall since the instructions do not mention power surge protection or power conditioners.

So my question is: Do I really need a power conditioner or are the computer shops just trying to make some more cash from us?

[85Dave]

I always get a surge strip for my PCs...and I have an even better quality one with conditioner built in for the big TV setup in my house.

Not only is it a good thing to have on your PC for protection against power spikes but it also gives you more outlets compared to the two on the wall.

When buying one, spend around $30 or more...
I use a Belkin SurgeMaster II (F5C980-TEL) on my computers and have never had any problems.

These wont protect against a direct lightning strike to your house...nothing can really...but any spikes from the grid or even brown-outs can be controls a little with a surge strip.