Protecting House in Lightening Storms

[Steph]

I will be coming next week to buy my TV home. Yay!! I've read the comments about basic improvements; i.e. gutters and so forth, but am curious about how, or even if, one can protect their home from lightening strikes and power surges. Can someone comment on systems I should seriously consider. Thank you!

[rdhdleo]

We had lightening rods installed about 6 yrs ago or so more so because the lightening around here scared the heck out of me. LOL Anyway not sure if they are the reason we have not had issues but so far no surges and no strikes. We also installed a whole house surge protector!

[gomoho]

Do what keeps you in your comfort zone. There are more gidgets and widgets than you can imagine being sold here. Decide what makes you feel safe and go for it.

When my husband and I walk our dogs we take note - yep, tubes (solar) and rods (lightening). Almost seems like a wave takes over a neighborhood and if one guy has it then I better as well. Don't get caught up in that thinking -
do what makes you feel comfortable.

[redwitch]

SECO has surge protectors you can buy or rent. They will install it. You can also buy one from any reputable electrician for installation. If you go the electrician route, I think Lenhart's does a good job on this issue.

Be careful who you hire to install lightning rods -- some companies know what they're doing, some don't. (Sorry, no recommendations on this one.)

[Steph]

They scare me too. I remember being a kid in Michigan and hiding in the basement during summer storms. Can I hide under the slab? Just kidding...

[billethkid]

buy a house next door to one with lightning rods!

[cquick]

We got lightning rods installed on our house soon after we built it. We have never lived on "waterfront" before. Our other house had large trees all around.

[GMIJFI]

The lifelong learning college frequently has a very informative one evening course on lightning and protecting your home. Minimal cost. Very factual. I suggest you take it before deciding what you want to do. Basically it boils down to your tolerance for risk.

[OBXNana]

SECCO installed a surge protector for the entire house. The cost was $25.00. You have an option of renting or buying. We opted to rent for $6.95 per month. Renting is not something we normally do, but in this case it seemed cheaper in the long run when we worked the numbers.