Thunderstorms, tropical systems and hurricanes are familiar threats in South Carolina. While homeowners often focus on protecting their property from wind and water, lightning and power surges can also damage TVs, computers, appliances, routers, gaming systems and other connected devices.
Lightning does not have to strike a home directly to cause damage. A nearby strike can create an electrical surge that travels through power lines and other conductive paths into a house. Once inside, that excess voltage can damage or shorten the life of connected electronics.
Fortunately, a few precautions can help reduce the risk.
1. Unplug Electronics Before the Storm Arrives
Disconnecting electronics from electrical outlets before severe weather reaches the area is one of the most effective ways to protect them from a power surge.
Devices to consider unplugging include:
- TVs and home entertainment systems
- Computers, monitors and office equipment
- Gaming consoles
- Routers and other networking equipment
- Small appliances
- Chargers and other sensitive electronics
Complete this preparation before the storm begins. According to the National Weather Service, people should not touch electrical equipment, plugs or cords while thunder and lightning are occurring.
If a storm is already underway, leave plugged-in equipment alone and wait until the danger has passed.
2. Use Point-of-Use Surge Protectors
A surge protector can help limit the voltage that reaches connected equipment, but a regular power strip does not necessarily provide surge protection. Look for a product specifically labeled as a surge protective device and certified by a recognized testing laboratory.
Point-of-use surge protectors are useful for electronics such as computers, TVs, gaming systems and home entertainment equipment. However, they protect only the devices connected to them, and no surge protector can guarantee protection from every lightning event or a direct strike.
Surge protectors also wear out over time. Replace one after a major surge, when its protection indicator shows that it is no longer working, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Consider Whole-Home Surge Protection
A licensed electrician can install a Type 1 or Type 2 whole-home surge protective device at or near a home’s main electrical panel. This equipment helps reduce surges before they travel throughout the home’s electrical system.
The Electrical Safety Foundation International recommends layered protection: a whole-home surge protective device combined with point-of-use protection for sensitive electronics.
Whole-home surge protection can reduce the likelihood of damage to appliances, heating and cooling equipment and electronics, but it does not make a home completely lightning-proof.
4. Understand Lightning-Protection Systems
A lightning-protection system is different from a whole-home surge protector. These professionally installed systems may include air terminals—commonly called lightning rods—conductors, bonding and grounding components.
Their purpose is to provide a controlled path for lightning current to travel safely toward the ground. Homeowners interested in this type of protection should consult a qualified lightning-protection professional. A complete system may also include surge protective devices to help protect electrical and communications equipment.
5. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Homeowners and renters should review their insurance policies to understand what is covered after a lightning strike or power surge. Coverage for the home, electronics and appliances can vary by policy, and deductibles or exclusions may apply.
Ask your insurance provider specifically about:
- Damage caused by lightning
- Damage caused by electrical surges
- Coverage limits for computers and electronics
- Requirements for documenting damaged property
Keeping photographs, receipts and a current home inventory can also make the claims process easier.
Prepare for Possible Power and Internet Outages
Protecting electronics is only one part of preparing for severe weather. Before a storm:
- Charge phones, tablets and portable battery banks.
- Enable emergency weather alerts.
- Keep flashlights and fresh batteries available.
- Save important phone numbers somewhere accessible.
- Download important documents or information that may be needed offline.
A smartphone’s mobile-hotspot feature may provide temporary internet access if electrical or wired internet service is interrupted, but it will work only when the phone is charged and cellular service and data are available. Learn more about FTC Wireless and the benefits of mobile hotspots.
For updates and preparation information, visit FTC’s Severe Weather Information page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a surge protector stop damage from a direct lightning strike?
No surge protector can guarantee protection from a direct lightning strike. Layering whole-home surge protection with point-of-use surge protectors can help reduce the risk from many common electrical surges.
Is a power strip the same as a surge protector?
No. Some power strips simply provide additional outlets. Check the product label to confirm that it offers surge protection and is certified by a recognized testing laboratory.
Protect Your FTC Wiring and Jacks
FTC customers can add Connection Protection for $4.95 per month. According to FTC’s current coverage information, the service covers qualifying damage caused by accidental cutting, pests, water and deterioration to FTC Internet, Phone, Security and TV network wires and jacks.
Connection Protection does not take the place of electrical surge protection or homeowners or renters insurance, but it can help protect customers from eligible repair costs involving FTC wiring and jacks.
Learn more about FTC Connection Protection or contact FTC Customer Service at 888-218-5050 to sign up.
