During the summer, high humidity and warm temperatures make thunderstorms more likely to develop. While the wind and rain are often intense and hazardous, lightning can be the biggest danger. Here’s why you should unplug all of your home’s appliances and electronics before a storm.
Damage to Plugged-in Electronics and Appliances
Some people enjoy nestling up and watching television during a storm. Unfortunately, this could prove to be a big mistake. If lightning happens to strike a nearby electric pole, this can create a power surge. Your household appliances simply can’t handle the extra volts of electricity. Flat-screen TVs, computers, and water heaters are just a few of the items that can become damaged. Even small surges can shorten the lifespan of electronics.
Possible Risk of Electrocution
It’s important to note that you shouldn’t wait until a storm arrives to start unplugging electronics and appliances. If you happen to touch an electrical cord when lightning strikes, there’s a chance that you’ll be electrocuted. Remember, the typical lightning strike contains around 15 million volts of electricity. This is enough energy to power a small community!
How to Stay Prepared and Prevent Damage
It’s a good idea to download an app on your phone that provides storm alerts. This will help you stay prepared for oncoming storms in your area. If you happen to hear a faint sound of thunder in the distance, the storm could be less than 30 miles away. Don’t wait to take action.
Whole-House Surge Protectors
Understandably, many homeowners are reluctant to unplug their refrigerators and freezers. No one wants food to spoil. Fortunately, there is a great solution to this problem.
Experts recommend installing a whole-house surge protector, which is far more effective than wall outlet surge protectors. It’s an investment that could save you thousands of dollars in the long run. This system is specifically designed to shield your household against lightning storm damage by redirecting excess current safely to the ground. Most units easily fit inside your main breaker box.
Our trusted electrical experts at CMC Electric can provide you with a reliable whole-house surge protector installation to protect your home and family. Learn more about how we can help you by giving us a call today or contacting us online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a power strip protect my electronics during a lightning storm?
Not fully. Plug-in surge protectors handle small, everyday surges, but they can’t stop the large surge from a nearby lightning strike. For better protection, pair them with a whole-house surge protector. The whole-house unit stops big surges at the panel, and the plug-in protectors catch whatever gets through at the outlet.
What should I unplug before a thunderstorm?
Start with your most expensive and sensitive electronics: TVs, computers, gaming consoles, routers, and anything connected to a charger. Unplug them before the storm arrives, not during it. Touching cords while lightning is active is exactly what you want to avoid.
How does a whole-house surge protector work?
A licensed electrician installs it at your main electrical panel. When a surge enters your home’s electrical system, the device diverts the excess voltage safely to the ground before it reaches your outlets and appliances. That protects hardwired systems too, like your HVAC, water heater, and refrigerator, which you can’t easily unplug.
Can I install a whole-house surge protector myself?
No. Installation requires working inside your main breaker panel, which carries serious shock and fire risks. It also has to meet local electrical codes. A licensed electrician can make sure the unit is sized correctly, wired properly, and grounded so it actually does its job.
Do surge protectors wear out?
Yes. Each surge a protector absorbs can wear down its internal components, and after a major surge it may no longer protect your home. Many units have an indicator light that shows when they need replacing. If your home has been through a severe storm, have an electrician check your surge protection.