Protecting Homes from Lightning—What to Do before Lightning Strikes
We've already had thousands of lightning strikes this year. Here are some tips to protect your home before lightning strikes.
Grounded TV Antennas
Even if you have a lightning rod system, outdoor television antennas should be grounded. The core of protection created by a grounded high point probably extends downward at a 45-degree angle all around the high point. A grounded antenna is no substitute for a lightning-rod system, however.
If you have a lightning-rod and ground system, the TV can be grounded by connecting the mast to the rod system. The ribbon lead-in should run through the arrester; the arrester should be grounded to one of the lightning-rod grounds. The arrester should be located at a lower level (closer to the earth) than the TV set.
Grounded Appliances
Appliances are more frequently burned out by electrical surges from nearby lightning strikes than from direct lightning. Lightning does not have to strike the distribution line to cause such a surge. To protect appliances, have a secondary lightning arrester installed in the service wires at the point where they drop to the house. Your electric power supplier can tell you where to purchase these secondary arresters and what kinds would be best for your electrical system.
Surge Protectors
A relatively inexpensive way to protect electronic equipment from power surges is through the use of surge protectors. These devices are typically attached between the appliance and the wall outlet. They protect delicate electronic components in appliances such as microwave ovens, computers and cable boxes from power surges caused by lightning or other sources. You can purchase surge protectors at computer and office equipment store.
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