How to protect your home against lightning bolts and overvoltage
There’s no doubt that the weather is becoming more extreme. Hotter than average summers and wet winters are now the norm. As well as the impact climate change is having on the environment, there is also speculation that it is causing more powerful storms. We discuss how these storms, and other electrical surges, can impact your home and business.
In this blog you will discover:
- How big is the risk?
- How a surge protection device works?
- How do they work?
- Getting it installed
How big is the risk? We all know the usual recommendations people make when there’s a lightning storm. Don’t stand near trees, avoid electrical equipment, steer clear of water. But do you know that there are precautions you can take to protect your home and business from lightening damage.
Amazingly 1 in every 200 homes will be struck by lightning each year. These strikes can create major problems with your electrical systems and appliances, and in extreme cases even start fires.
What some people may not know is that our houses are also susceptible to similar electrical surges following power cuts. However, there are cheap and hassle-free preventions that can give you peace of mind and reduce your insurance costs.
How do they work?
Surge protection devices work by intercepting incoming surges and redirecting the excess voltage. These devices can be fitted at the installation, at distribution boards and near terminal equipment.
It’s important to note that selecting the right type of protection will be dependent on the type of electrical installation and the equipment connected to it. An electrical engineer will be able review your property and its contents and advise accordingly.
Sometimes electricians recommend combining several levels of surge protection devices. This takes advantage of the best features of each device to improve the protection level for the equipment.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of fitting these protection mechanisms are numerous. Firstly, they stop the electrical surge from causing fires. This can happen when the surge comes to in to contact with flammable material such as gas pipes and wood. This is one of the most serious effects of lightning damage and can be catastrophic for the building and its occupants.
As mentioned above, the property’s electrical content is also at great risk. The immense surge of electrical energy travels through the circuit and can damage anything that is attached. TVs, fridges, washing machines and other expensive appliances are at risk, especially if they are frequently left plugged in.
Power cuts can also have similar effects, especially if the shortage lasts for a long time. Once the power returns, often there is a large surge of electrical current and this can damage appliances within the home in a similar way.
Insurers like the added assurance that these devices provide and often having one fitted will reduce your premium. Ask your provider about the cost benefits of these systems.
Getting it installed
Steve Rudkin Electrical Contractors have been installed these systems for both domestic and commercial clients for five years. The installation is quick and hassle-free
To find out more please contact a member of our friendly team.