How to Protect your Electronics & Appliances from Lightning Strikes & Power Surges

Lightning is a common cause of power surges.

Electronic devices and entertainment center components such as telephones, laptop and desktop computers, televisions, game systems, VCRs, DVD players or recorders, Blu-ray players, audio equipment and household appliances are extremely sensitive to power surges. Typically, anything that is plugged into a power outlet during a fluctuation of power is capable of being damaged. Different things cause power surges, including severe weather, wildlife, defective wiring or power company repairs. The best way to prevent damage to sensitive equipment is to take protective measures before any power surges.

Things You'll Need

• Power strip(s) with surge protection
• UPS
• Meter-based surge protector
• Electrical outlet(s) with surge protection

Instructions

1. Use surge protector power strips on electronic devices and appliances throughout the home. These look similar to ordinary power strips but include added protection in the event of a power surge.

2. Plug specific electronic devices, such as computers or other equipment, into a UPS, or uninterruptible power supply. This device is a surge protector that also features a battery backup that will provide power for an extended period of several minutes after a complete power outage.

3. Contact your local power company to install a complete home surge protector at your electric meter. These meter-based protectors provide the best protection against power surges for all electronics and appliances in your home. Inquire about fees for this type of protection.

Tips & Warnings

• Use more than one form of protection against power surges.

• Hire a qualified electrician to install an electrical outlet with a built-in surge protector in areas of the home where surge protector power strips are not feasible.

• Unplug any electronics and appliances, if you suspect a surge during a storm.

• Use only UL-rated surge protectors and replace them as soon as the warranty ends or as needed.

References

• D.C. Office of the People's Counsel: How to Keep Your Appliances From Being Fried
• State Farm Insurance Learning Center; Protect Your Property From Power Surges; February 2011