Which of these appliances would typically require a surge protector?

A surge protector is designed to protect electronic devices from voltage spikes that can damage their internal components. Among the listed appliances, TV and computer equipment are particularly sensitive to these electrical surges.

Both televisions and computers contain intricate circuits and sensitive microprocessors that can be harmed by sudden changes in electrical current. A surge protector absorbs excess voltage and prevents it from reaching these devices, thereby reducing the risk of failure or damage.

In contrast, a flashlight operates on batteries, which are not wired into the home’s electrical system, and thus do not require surge protection. A refrigerator, while it can experience issues from surges, is typically built to withstand them to a degree, and it's not as vulnerable as the sensitive electronic components found in TVs and computers. A lamp is also less likely to sustain significant damage from electrical surges, especially if it simply houses a standard light bulb. Therefore, TV and computer equipment are the appliances that most necessitate the added protection of a surge protector.