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Originally Posted by Lightning
Lightning Protection Systems (LPS) commonly called lightning rods have been credited with saving lives and property since they were invented by Ben Franklin in 1752. However, the installation of LPS is a specialty offered by firms that are listed by UL and employ craftsmen that are qualified as Master Installer by four closed book proctored exams offered by the Lightning Protection Institute. Typically, electrical engineers and electricians are skilled in the National Electrical Code and the safe use of electricity in your home and other structures and that does NOT include lightning. Please note the wide use of lightning rods around The Villages - all buildings around the square at Sumter Landing, all pumping stations, fire department headquarters, nearly all churches, hotels, and in some neighborhoods as much as 15% of the homes. For more information research recent issues of the VHA Voice, POA Bulletin, **************.com, and University of Florida's Dr. Martin Uman's book at the Belvedere Library, The Art and Science of Lightning Protection. Beware of myths and misunderstandings found elsewhere on this subject.
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Most accurate post here yet!
They DO work. However, they MUST be inspected after installation to verify that the bonding between all components and then the final grounding to earth. These verifications should be re-performed probably annually as a minimum. Without the proper minimum resistance to earth, your LPS is useless. NFPA 780 lists lightning mitigation requirements to be followed, kind of like NFPA 70 known as the National Electrical Code does.
IF you are looking to have a system installed, know that you should have a certified DESIGNER as well as a certified INSTALLER. Having a UL inspection on the completed installation is a good idea. This is the proper way to do it. I agree that LPI is very much recommended as a source to START from in choosing local representatives.