Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
I agree that surge suppression is a good idea. But, that is the responsibility of the electric company, and they do a good job. But, telling homeowners that they need to buy an add-on device because the electrical system is inadequate doesn't make sense to me. If the surge device was really needed, it could easily be incorporated into the standard electrical panel and be required by code. The only evidence I have seen that you need a whole house surge protector is anecdotal evidence by people who already paid money for it. Where is the proof?
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My co-instructor and I teach classes (mainly to the military worldwide). Here's a few comments:
1. Contrary to what we were always taught, lightning DOES NOT follow the "path of least resistance". It follows many paths "proportionately"
2. As one reader said, the best bet (but not the cheapest) is installing air gap terminals on the roof that'll be connected to a grounding electrode that's been thoroughly tested. That electrode will also need to be connected to the power company electrode (per code)
3. And finally, as someone said, NOTHING is going to TOTALLY eliminate all damages caused by a direct shot of lightning. Too much energy coming in.
4. Prayers are probably the closest to solving all your problems