Do Surge Protectors Protect Against Lightning?

You probably know that it is dangerous to use any electronic device that’s plugged into an electrical outlet during a thunderstorm. That’s because lightning can move through electrical wiring and into electronic devices, causing power surges that may cause those devices to overheat, short circuit, or fail. Many homeowners assume that by simply plugging devices into a surge protector or investing in a whole home surge protector, they can avoid these risks. However, these devices on their own are not enough to manage lightning-induced power surges that may occur during a thunderstorm.

What Is a Surge Protector?

Surge protectors are devices that measure the voltage being delivered to different outlets or devices and limit the amount of voltage supplied when there is a spike or surge in electrical power. They then divert any excess electrical energy into the ground so that it is absorbed and neutralized. There are two types of residential surge protectors: Point of use surge protectors and whole home surge protectors.

Most homeowners use point of use surge protectors to plug in electronics and appliances. They are easy to purchase and install, and they don’t require any sort of professional installation. These devices are designed to manage excess voltage that may come from internal sources within your system, such as large appliances. Whole home surge protectors, also known as surge suppression devices, should be installed by a professional, and these are designed to intercept external power surges. For example, if there is a downed power line in your area, a whole home surge protector can control the amount of voltage that gets to the home’s main electrical panel.

Will a Surge Protector Protect Against Lightning?

Power surges can be caused by a wide range of factors, including lightning strikes. The difference with a lightning strike, however, is the amount of power involved. During a high-energy surge from a direct or nearby lightning strike, a surge protector on its own may not offer sufficient protection, meaning that your appliances and electronic devices could still sustain damage.

What You Need: Lightning Surge Protection

For the best possible lightning surge protection, consult the pros at Boston Lightning Rod Company, Inc. to invest in a specialized surge suppression system that can handle a higher volume of excess energy. However, even with the right surge protection device, you will still need additional lightning protection for your home.

How Lightning and Surge Protection Work Together

Ideally, a surge protector for lightning strikes will be part of a larger protection system for your home that includes a lightning rod to intercept direct lightning strikes, bonding to prevent damage from side flashes, and conductors to connect these system components to the ground. You also need specialty equipment to properly ground your electrical wiring deeper into the ground so that you are more fully protected. With a whole home lightning protection system, electrical current is transferred through a series of conductor cables and bonds to the outside of your home and safely discharged into the ground.

Why Choose Boston Lightning Rod Company, Inc.?

Boston Lightning Rod Company, Inc. offers unparalleled expertise in residential lightning protection and surge protector devices. We have been in business for more than 150 years, and we are registered with several reputable organizations, including the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and the United Lightning Protection Association (ULPA). We provide customized systems for homes and commercial buildings of all sizes, and we take pride in our exceptional customer service that homeowners throughout Dedham, MA, and the surrounding areas have trusted for generations.

Learn More About Surge Protectors in Dedham, MA

If you are ready to install a surge protector and lightning protection system in your home, contact us today to get started. We are happy to provide a quote for our services and help you understand what type of protection your home needs.