Quote:
Originally Posted by roadrnnr
We just bought a new house and Seco inquired whether I wanted a Surge Protector they attach to the meter.
Anybody have one of these, are they a good idea?
I come from a state we never really worried about lightning strikes to much
Thanks
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Here is a detailed discussion from last year when a house in DeLuna was struck.
Lightning Strikes Home in DeLuna
If I may be allowed to paraphrase JRef, then lightning protection is a phased approach. Use all of them. The best is to get lightning rods. He recommends (strongly) using a certified installer & he supplies contact names.
Next up is a whole house surge protector as in the Eaton, installed by electricians at the breaker box. Next is point of use surge protectors at your electronics, computers, TVs, unfortunately most appliances nowadays have a electronic panel, ie: fridge, washer, dryer, microwave, garage door opener, etc. so all of them. Finally the SECO surge mitigator. If you have the financial resources to do all at once, then that is the answer. Otherwise, proceed as you can. Keeping the ultimate goal in mind.
The reasons are: the lightning rods protect your house & your life. The cost is the highest, several thousand dollars. But the likelihood of getting hit is relatively low. The risk is unimaginably high.
The whole house surge protector protects your major appliances. Cost moderate, & likelihood of surges greater. Risk: pretty high if you lose AC, fridge, etc.
The point of use surge protectors may help. No use in a big surge. But many tiny surges may be why your TVs, etc. just stop working someday. Worthwhile.
Seco surge mitigator helps with surges from SECOs power, but the likelihood of getting hit is in the 20% range.
JRef, please correct, amend, add on. Thank you as always.