Surge protector

[dmwalsh33]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

[retiredguy123]

Personally, I don't think you need a surge protector anywhere, except the $15 multi-outlet surge protectors on your television, computer, and other electronic equipment.

[metoo21]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

My inside air handler is hardwired - not plugged in. I had an electrician install a whole house surge protector.

Siemens FS-140 (https://www.amazon.com/Siemens-FS140-Whole-House-Protection/dp/B013WINMK6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2UYMO19W09V99&keywords=siemens%2Bfs140&qid=1702441366&sprefix=Siemens%2BFS%2Caps%2C124&sr=8-1&th=1)

I use UPS's for desktop computers, routers, TV & streaming boxes. They have surge protectors built in.

[retiredguy123]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!
If you need a surge protector on your air handler, why don't you need one on the water heater, washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, stove, dishwasher, garbage disposal, ceiling fans, and every other electrical device in your house? I think the company is trying to scam you. I don't even have a whole house surge protector because I think it is the power company's responsibility to deliver safe, surge-free power to the house without the need to buy an add-on device. Where is the evidence that these surge protectors provide any positive return on investment?

[asianthree]

Will say a surge protector didn’t stop the frying of irrigation box, and small appliances when lightening hit four houses down, and traveled to our house. Read the fine print, many issues will not be covered.

[ThirdOfFive]

About a month after we moved here lightning struck in the back yard across the street. It blew out several garage door openers on our block, ours included. The guy who installed a new opener for us strongly advised us to get a one-unit surge protector (about $35 from Amazon) which we did. Pretty cheap insurance against it happening again.

[JGibson]

The inside air handler should be hard-wired to the circuit breaker on a dedicated breaker. Usually a 40 amp.

[pikeselectric]

Hi there. Casandra with Pike's Electric here. My suggestion/advice would be a whole home surge protector on your home's electrical panel/service. We install and highly recommend the Type 2 Eaton Ultra whole home unit, which is designed to protect all of your home's major appliances and equipment. This includes your AC, air handler, kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, etc. This unit is backed with a limited lifetime warranty. I'd love to help you find out if we can install this in your Villages home and offer you a Talk of the Villages discount. Give me a call if you are interested :) (352)748-6251

[pikeselectric]

About a month after we moved here lightning struck in the back yard across the street. It blew out several garage door openers on our block, ours included. The guy who installed a new opener for us strongly advised us to get a one-unit surge protector (about $35 from Amazon) which we did. Pretty cheap insurance against it happening again.

Hi ThirdOfFive. We hear this a lot in the Villages that nearby strikes can cause damages as such from streets away. Small point of use surge protectors do help suppress such surges if they travel in. We highly recommend a whole home surge protector (which we offer at Pike's Electric) to protect all of your home's major appliances and equipment. If you have interest in more extensive protection, I'd love to help you! - Casandra with Pike's Electric (352)748-6251

[pikeselectric]

Will say a surge protector didn’t stop the frying of irrigation box, and small appliances when lightening hit four houses down, and traveled to our house. Read the fine print, many issues will not be covered.

Hi Asianthree, Our type 2 Eaton Ultra whole home surge protector is designed to protect your whole home's equipment and major appliances from surge damage. I'd love to tell you more about it if you are in the market for more extensive protection - Casandra with Pike's Electric (352)748-6251

[pikeselectric]

If you need a surge protector on your air handler, why don't you need one on the water heater, washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, stove, dishwasher, garbage disposal, ceiling fans, and every other electrical device in your house? I think the company is trying to scam you. I don't even have a whole house surge protector because I think it is the power company's responsibility to deliver safe, surge-free power to the house without the need to buy an add-on device. Where is the evidence that these surge protectors provide any positive return on investment?

Hello Retiredguy. I would like to share with you information on the Eaton Ultra Type 2 Whole Home Surge device. This unit, which we have installed with Pike's Electric for over 10 years, has provided whole home protection to many Villages residents. The unit is backed with lifetime warranty coverage and reimbursement for any damages if surges occur.
Unfortunately there is no protection from a direct strike, as mother nature makes the rules. However, this unit will protect surges from traveling into your home, from the power company in times of bad weather or power line issues, which we have found can occur on even the most sunny of days. SECO does offer a surge suppression device for their meters, which they charge for. My advice, to anyone interested in protecting their home, look into a device such as the Eaton Ultra to be installed. Spending hundreds on an installation of this caliber will save you thousands in replacing appliances.
Link to unit: https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us/skuPage.CHSPT2ULTRA.html

[petsetc]

Hi Asianthree, Our type 2 Eaton Ultra whole home surge protector is designed to protect your whole home's equipment and major appliances from surge damage. I'd love to tell you more about it if you are in the market for more extensive protection - Casandra with Pike's Electric (352)748-6251

So since virtually all the houses in The Villages are about the same, what is Pike Electric total charge for the Eaton Ultra installed?

[pikeselectric]

So since virtually all the houses in The Villages are about the same, what is Pike Electric total charge for the Eaton Ultra installed?

Installed price is $545.00 (some restrictions apply, such as panel space/availability for the circuit to be added). Also, mention you found us on Talk of the Villages and you get 5% off. We keep the installation kits in stock and we have a few spots left before the end of the month to schedule. :)

[Trayderjoe]

I would look at the issue of surge protection as an insurance policy, and the level of protection would be commensurate with your risk tolerance level.

Let me preface this was a little story. I was a member of the Health, Safety, and Environmental Affairs division of a major chemical company, and electrical safety was part of our training program. I did some research after hearing the local power company advertise whole house surge protection on the radio, of which I was unaware at the time, talking with several of our electrical engineers. The short (pun intended) of it is I developed a safety presentation for my client base in which we recommended that people consider adding it to their homes.

Remember, as was stated in an earlier post, NO electrical surge protection will protect you from a direct strike on your home. Also keep in mind that the whole home surge protection system on your electrical panel potentially has a gap, in that ground strikes near your home can enter your home through your utility lines, such as cable service lines.

I have subsequently had installed whole home surge protection on each home I have owned. You can choose to buy or rent the unit, but whichever way you go, be sure to get a surge indicator on the unit so that you can see if a surge occurred. You may need a qualified electrician to subsequently check your system to ensure that you are still protected. I supplemented the panel surge suppressor with heavy duty surge protector power strips on each equipment with connectivity to cable service. These power strips have input/output coaxial cable connectors. The coaxial cable from the wall connects on the input side, then a separate coaxial cable runs from the output side to the electronic equipment I am seeking to protect. Lastly, I had surge suppression electrical outlets installed for my two garage door opener motors.

I am not suggesting anyone do what I did for my home. The level of, or lack thereof, surge suppression is again a personal risk assessment you need to make.

Consider the replacement costs should your electronic devices get versus the costs for protection. I would not however, dismiss electrical surge out of hand.

[Altavia]

Will say a surge protector didn’t stop the frying of irrigation box, and small appliances when lightening hit four houses down, and traveled to our house. Read the fine print, many issues will not be covered.

A whole house protects at the point of power entry into your house.

The wiring in your house can act as an antenna for the electromagnetic pulse from a nearby lightening strike. Essentially bypassing a whole house protector.

That's why for maximum risk reduction, they also recommend local surge protection for critical/expensive items.

[pikeselectric]

Very well said, Trayderjoe!

[retiredguy123]

Most people pay more than $1,000 per year to the power company for their electricity. But then, the power company wants to charge an additional fee of $350 to install a surge protection device on the back of the meter, which requires a separate trip by an electrician to your house. And, they give you a damage warranty that basically covers nothing. If the device is needed, why doesn't the meter come with the device already attached? And, if the device is effective, why doesn't the warranty cover anything? Does this make any sense to anyone?

[spinner1001]

Most people pay more than $1,000 per year to the power company for their electricity. But then, the power company wants to charge an additional fee of $350 to install a surge protection device on the back of the meter, which requires a separate trip by an electrician to your house. And, they give you a damage warranty that basically covers nothing. If the device is needed, why doesn't the meter come with the device already attached? And, if the device is effective, why doesn't the warranty cover anything? Does this make any sense to anyone?

Yes, it does to me. I’ve learned the nuances.

Physics >> human intervention. That device reduces risk. It doesn’t eliminate it.

Economics: There is no such thing as a free lunch.

[LoisR]

We had a whole house surge protector installed in our electric panel box after being hit by lightening. I also use separate quality surge prototectors on outlets that I use for car charging, cloth washers, garage door motor, tvs. etc.
Spend it now or later. It's cheaper doing the right thing now.

[mikeberk]

You should have a whole house surge protector (220 volt) installed at the panel board or at the meter box outside the home. Depending on who your electric utility is you may be able to get it installed by them. Or you can get a license electrical contract to install it for you. I also recommend 110 volt surge protectors at the outlets of your sensitive electronics.

[goodoldan]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

What they're telling you is that they'd like some additional profit, please. Did they happen to mention where this dreaded surge might come from? What about your TV, or even your electric toothbrush? Are you going to be heartless and leave them unprotected?!?!

Nearby lightning would be the obvious, most likely source of a surge on the power to your home. SECO offers a legitimate whole-house power line surge protector that is installed at the electric meter for either a one-time charge of about $200, or alternatively for an ongoing fee of about $5/month on your bill.

[Sully2023]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

I had a whole house surge protector added to my home when I first moved in. It was installed on the master electrical panel which protects the entire home. The cost was about $500 and the work was done by the electrical people who installed my power box when the house was built. So far, so good.

[Altavia]

We had a whole house surge protector installed in our electric panel box after being hit by lightening. I also use separate quality surge prototectors on outlets that I use for car charging, cloth washers, garage door motor, tvs. etc.
Spend it now or later. It's cheaper doing the right thing now.


Same here, additional protection near the device reduces risk because nearby lightening can induce surges direcly into house wiring - effectively bypassing the whole house protector.

Adding spa, fridge, microwave, stove, dishwasher, irrigation controller to your list.

Note: they do have a life and need to be replaced every 5 years.

Spent over 9 months dealing with insurance after lightening hit my chain link fence up north and took out most of anything with electronics in the house.

[JWGifford]

I would look at the issue of surge protection as an insurance policy, and the level of protection would be commensurate with your risk tolerance level.

Let me preface this was a little story. I was a member of the Health, Safety, and Environmental Affairs division of a major chemical company, and electrical safety was part of our training program. I did some research after hearing the local power company advertise whole house surge protection on the radio, of which I was unaware at the time, talking with several of our electrical engineers. The short (pun intended) of it is I developed a safety presentation for my client base in which we recommended that people consider adding it to their homes.

Remember, as was stated in an earlier post, NO electrical surge protection will protect you from a direct strike on your home. Also keep in mind that the whole home surge protection system on your electrical panel potentially has a gap, in that ground strikes near your home can enter your home through your utility lines, such as cable service lines.

I have subsequently had installed whole home surge protection on each home I have owned. You can choose to buy or rent the unit, but whichever way you go, be sure to get a surge indicator on the unit so that you can see if a surge occurred. You may need a qualified electrician to subsequently check your system to ensure that you are still protected. I supplemented the panel surge suppressor with heavy duty surge protector power strips on each equipment with connectivity to cable service. These power strips have input/output coaxial cable connectors. The coaxial cable from the wall connects on the input side, then a separate coaxial cable runs from the output side to the electronic equipment I am seeking to protect. Lastly, I had surge suppression electrical outlets installed for my two garage door opener motors.

I am not suggesting anyone do what I did for my home. The level of, or lack thereof, surge suppression is again a personal risk assessment you need to make.

Consider the replacement costs should your electronic devices get versus the costs for protection. I would not however, dismiss electrical surge out of hand.
Makes perfect sense, thanks. As you know, risk is the product of severity and likelihood. I think most people can agree on the severity aspect (e.g., blowing up all your expensive electronics), but it’s the likelihood that gives me pause. I’ve owned a number of houses in my lifetime and never had a whole house surge protector and never needed one. Perhaps I lived in areas that had less lightening activity than TV or had more reliable electric service. I’m curious how many people suffer large losses due to electric surges per year in TV. Has to be quite small. As with everything, it all depends on one’s risk tolerance levels.

[easeonby]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

You can have the electric company install a surge protector behind the meter which protects the whole house. I would still add surge protectors for your sensitive electronics.

[Altavia]

Did they happen to mention where this dreaded surge might come from?


A nearby lightening strike could induce a surge directly into the wiring into the air handler, before the whole house protection can help. Adding protection close to the air handler reduces the risk.

[Justputt]

Twenty years in North Texas tornado alley, T-storms common, and I never had a lightning strike take anything out. I did have surge protectors/UPS on computers/TV and a few critical items, but never the entire house. That said, with all the surge protectors and UPSs I've bought over those years, the whole house surge protector may have been a cheaper way to go, idk.

[JRcorvette]

If lightning hits your house or even right net to your house no surge protector will do anything for you! They simply can not handle that much voltage!

[retiredguy123]

Makes perfect sense, thanks. As you know, risk is the product of severity and likelihood. I think most people can agree on the severity aspect (e.g., blowing up all your expensive electronics), but it’s the likelihood that gives me pause. I’ve owned a number of houses in my lifetime and never had a whole house surge protector and never needed one. Perhaps I lived in areas that had less lightening activity than TV or had more reliable electric service. I’m curious how many people suffer large losses due to electric surges per year in TV. Has to be quite small. As with everything, it all depends on one’s risk tolerance levels.
Note that the surge protector does not really offer lightning protection. It can only provide limited protection from lightning and only if the lightning enters the house through the incoming power line.

[DonnaNi4os]

The more protection you have against surges the better. I have a whole house surge protector, one on the ac, and a surge protector on every outlet that has something plugged into it…including the outlet on my garage ceiling for the garage door opener. This is truly the lightning capital of the world.

[themarinos]

[QUOTE=metoo21;2282013]My inside air handler is hardwired - not plugged in. I had an electrician install a whole house surge protector.

You can get a whole house surge protector from the power company. You have the option to pay it monthly or buy it out right it's your choice

[retiredguy123]

A nearby lightening strike could induce a surge directly into the wiring into the air handler, before the whole house protection can help. Adding protection close to the air handler reduces the risk.
I understand your point, but the air handler is just a fan. Wouldn't the same logic also apply to more expensive items, such as the water heater and the refrigerator?

[Jameson]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

I'm just curious. Did this come up as a result of them installing a new system and telling you this was needed for warranty to be active or was someone doing some routine system maintenance and just trying to upsell you?

[jrref]

I'm one of the engineers in the Villages Lightning Study Group headed by Len Hathaway. We give presentations on Lightning protection and surge protection to many groups frequently in the Villages. If you have the time it's well worth it to go to one of the presentations so you can make your own informed decision.

There were a lot of responses to the initial question. There are two parts to the answer. There is nothing that will 100% protect your home from a direct lightning strike. A lightning protection system (lightning rod system) will minimize and or may prevent damage and will significantly lessen the risk of your home burning to the ground from this type of weather event. Because of all the building in the Villages we hear more and more about homes being struck and burning to the ground over the past couple of years.

The other part concerns surge protection. This more frequently happens when lightning strikes near your home. When this occurs your home may get hit by an "induced"surge which frequently trips circuit breakers, especially freezers and door openers in your garage but depending on the intensity can damage your HVAC system, inside and out, all your appliances, electronic equipment, pool and spa equipment, etc.. Surge protection is a layered system. There is a surge protector you can purchase or rent from your electric company mounted on the electrical meter which will protect you against surges coming in from the power lines. This happens statistically 20% of the time. Everyone is correct, the electric company has a sophisticated surge and grounding system to protect from this type of event and because most power surges don't come into your home from the utility many who have this device still report surge damage in their home. In addition to the surge protector at your electrical meter you can install what is called a "whole house surge protector". There are many but the Eaton Ultra is one of the more affordable and effective ones that's commonly installed by most electrical companies such as Pikes and Lenhardt. This surge protector is mounted at your electrical circuit breaker box. Because its located at the breaker box the other 80% of the power surges you can get such as at the outside HVAC unit, pool, spa, outside lighting, etc, will be shunted by this device at the circuit breaker box and reduce and or eliminate the surge from spreading to the rest of the circuits in your home. Because surges are so fast, the surge protector has to be as close to the source as possible to be effective. The surge protector mounted on the electrical meter can help, but it's not designed to shunt these other types of induced surges.The "whole house" surge protector will protect your appliances, washer dryer and all other devices that are hard wired such as the HVAC air handler and your electric hot water heater.The final protection are the surge protection power strips, plug-in or point of use surge protectors which you install at your TVs, computers and any other sensitive electrical equipment. These devices will shunt and protect your equipment form any remaining surges that get through your meter or whole house surge protector. If you want to go further you can install point of use surge protector outlets or plug-in protectors for your microwave, dishwasher, garage door openers, etc. and or hard wired surge protectors at you outside HVAC unit, pool and spa equipment.

To summarize, Surge Protection is a layered system. You want to install devices to reduce and or eliminate the power surge so by the time a large surge reaches your home devices it's small enough for the point of use surge protector to handle it. Damage from power surges is covered in your homeowners insurance but you still have to pay the deductable and deal with replacing all the damaged devices. We live in the lightning capital of the USA so investing in surge protection is probably a wise investment but like insurance, it depends on your tolerance to risk. I can tell you personally, there are many homeowners who experience an induced power surge from lightning strikes and loose all there electronic devices and never talk about it meaning it happens more frequently here in the Villages than you would expect. Most of us have at least $1,000 deductable on our homeowners insurance which more than pays for the surge protection I discussed here in this respose.

Hope this helps put the topic in perspective.

[retiredguy123]

I'm just curious. Did this come up as a result of them installing a new system and telling you this was needed for warranty to be active or was someone doing some routine system maintenance and just trying to upsell you?
Not required for warranty for any HVAC system I have ever owned.

[biker1]

Before signing up for the SECO surge protector that is installed as a ring on your power meter, you should read the warranty coverage. Here is what I consider the most important part:

Under no circumstances will MTI guarantee performance due to a lightning strike not carried down the utility power lines and through the utility transformer and then the SPD to the residence.
This warranty excludes all stand-alone “electronic equipment” using microchip, microprocessor or transistor technology, such as but not limited to computers, televisions, DVD Players/Recorders and Security Systems.

What they're telling you is that they'd like some additional profit, please. Did they happen to mention where this dreaded surge might come from? What about your TV, or even your electric toothbrush? Are you going to be heartless and leave them unprotected?!?!

Nearby lightning would be the obvious, most likely source of a surge on the power to your home. SECO offers a legitimate whole-house power line surge protector that is installed at the electric meter for either a one-time charge of about $200, or alternatively for an ongoing fee of about $5/month on your bill.

[retiredguy123]

Before signing up for the SECO surge protector that is installed as a ring on your power meter, you should read the warranty coverage. Here is what I consider the most important part:

Under no circumstances will MTI guarantee performance due to a lightning strike not carried down the utility power lines and through the utility transformer and then the SPD to the residence.
This warranty excludes all stand-alone “electronic equipment” using microchip, microprocessor or transistor technology, such as but not limited to computers, televisions, DVD Players/Recorders and Security Systems.
I agree. The SECO cost is $350, not $200. Also, I would suggest reading the entire "exclusions" clause in the warranty. The warranty covers almost nothing. It doesn't even cover damage to an electrical outlet.

[jrref]

Before signing up for the SECO surge protector that is installed as a ring on your power meter, you should read the warranty coverage. Here is what I consider the most important part:

Under no circumstances will MTI guarantee performance due to a lightning strike not carried down the utility power lines and through the utility transformer and then the SPD to the residence.
This warranty excludes all stand-alone “electronic equipment” using microchip, microprocessor or transistor technology, such as but not limited to computers, televisions, DVD Players/Recorders and Security Systems.
This has been discussed before but the warrenty clearly is designed to pay if the surge protector fails which they will check when it's sent back to the factory if the indicator lights go out and as I mentioned, it's not designed to protect sensitive electronic equipment. It's designed to block and or reduce a large surge coming from the power grid so your subsequent whole house surge and point of use protectors can manage the remainder of the surge. It will also protect non-electronic motor driven devices such as you washer/dryer if it's an older type or an electric stove for example if they don't have any electronic digital controls.

[jrref]

I understand your point, but the air handler is just a fan. Wouldn't the same logic also apply to more expensive items, such as the water heater and the refrigerator?

There is some electronics in the air handler. There is an electronic motor controller device in the fan motor housing and mine failed when the former owner got a power surge. It was never noticed because it only effected the system when the Aux Heat was engaged. I found the problem when I bought the house and tested the HVAC heating. Also, your thermostat runs off of the air handler power so that can be affected by a surge as well.

[pikeselectric]

You can have the electric company install a surge protector behind the meter which protects the whole house. I would still add surge protectors for your sensitive electronics.

Hi Easeonby - There are two forms of whole home surge protectors. The power company is reponsible for their equipment, which is the meter and power supply components. They have their own surge unit that they provide which is installed at the meter.
A licensed electrician can install a whole home surge unit for your interior panel/or where your main breaker is located (meter main if applicable), which will protect your home's major appliances. We offer the Eaton Ultra Whole Home Type 2 unit that serves this purpose and protection.
Good news is, you can have both power company's unit and our unit.
Think of it as a double blanket of protection :)

[pikeselectric]

I agree. The SECO cost is $350, not $200. Also, I would suggest reading the entire "exclusions" clause in the warranty. The warranty covers almost nothing. It doesn't even cover damage to an electrical outlet.

This is good to know. The Type 2 Eaton Ultra Surge Protector has an extensive warranty, including limited lifetime for replacement of the unit and up to $75,000 of damage to the home's major equipment, electronics, etc. Of course, there is a clause of "direct lightning strikes" but, personally and I suggest this to all of our customers, paying for the protection is worth it instead of paying thousands to replace appliances because of a slight surge from a power company issue at random.

[Randall55]

Hi there. Casandra with Pike's Electric here. My suggestion/advice would be a whole home surge protector on your home's electrical panel/service. We install and highly recommend the Type 2 Eaton Ultra whole home unit, which is designed to protect all of your home's major appliances and equipment. This includes your AC, air handler, kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, etc. This unit is backed with a limited lifetime warranty. I'd love to help you find out if we can install this in your Villages home and offer you a Talk of the Villages discount. Give me a call if you are interested :) (352)748-6251How many amps of protection does this whole home unit provide?

[pikeselectric]

How many amps of protection does this whole home unit provide?

Hello Randall, here is the specification sheet of the Eaton Ultra Type 2 unit with all of the technical ratings: https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us/skuPage.CHSPT2ULTRA.pdf

[biker1]

The issue is that many (most) people will see that there is a warranty and assume their appliances/devices are covered if they are damaged. My post was simply to suggest that people actually read the SECO warranty and have their expectations set appropriately.

This has been discussed before but the warrenty clearly is designed to pay if the surge protector fails which they will check when it's sent back to the factory if the indicator lights go out and as I mentioned, it's not designed to protect sensitive electronic equipment. It's designed to block and or reduce a large surge coming from the power grid so your subsequent whole house surge and point of use protectors can manage the remainder of the surge. It will also protect non-electronic motor driven devices such as you washer/dryer if it's an older type or an electric stove for example if they don't have any electronic digital controls.

[jrref]

The issue is that many (most) people will see that there is a warranty and assume their appliances/devices are covered if they are damaged. My post was simply to suggest that people actually read the SECO warranty and have their expectations set appropriately.

Correct, so while the utility surge protector warrenty clearly states it won't protect any devices with electronics the Eaton whole house surge protector and point of use surge protectors warrenty does state it will cover these devices. Of course there are exclusions but there is some coverage.

[Altavia]

I understand your point, but the air handler is just a fan. Wouldn't the same logic also apply to more expensive items, such as the water heater and the refrigerator?

Air handlers now days include electronics for speed controlled fans that requires replacing the entire fan assembly costing over $500.

So agree with you it would depend on the cost off adding a hard wired surge protector to that unit.

[ton80]

Correct, so while the utility surge protector warranty clearly states it won't protect any devices with electronics the Eaton whole house surge protector and point of use surge protectors warranty does state it will cover these devices. Of course there are exclusions but there is some coverage.

Here are some of the conditions that limit the coverage. Read the whole Eaton warranty to see if you actually meet all of the conditions:

"6. This coverage is secondary to any applicable warranties,
service contracts and / or all other insurance. If the claim
is found to be valid, Eaton will pay up to the deductible
of the homeowners insurance or the cost of the damage,
whichever is less. This reimbursement is limited to the
Reimbursement Maximum Amounts stated below.
7. Electrical equipment, such as televisions with multiple
ports, must have surge protection on each conductor
(e.g. ac power, cable, etc.)."

#6 limits the amount of damage to the deductible from your homeowner insurance. Therefore your primary insurance is still your own insurance.

#7 requires a surge protection device on every connection to the equipment so there is another set of competing insurance coverages to contend with before you can collect anything.

IMHO, you may have some limited coverage from this Eaton surge protector warranty, but it is pretty limited.

[bsloan1960]

If you need a surge protector on your air handler, why don't you need one on the water heater, washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, stove, dishwasher, garbage disposal, ceiling fans, and every other electrical device in your house? I think the company is trying to scam you. I don't even have a whole house surge protector because I think it is the power company's responsibility to deliver safe, surge-free power to the house without the need to buy an add-on device. Where is the evidence that these surge protectors provide any positive return on investment? It is their responsibility to provide power that is generated and supplied using the available technology. It is up to us to protect against mother nature. If your house is hit with a surge and your possessions are damaged there will be no recourse against the utility.

[retiredguy123]

It is their responsibility to provide power that is generated and supplied using the available technology. It is up to us to protect against mother nature. If your house is hit with a surge and your possessions are damaged there will be no recourse against the utility.
You have homeowner's insurance to cover damage caused by mother nature. The surge protector warranty covers almost no damage in your house, especially by lightning. The lightning must actually travel through the nearest transformer to cover any damage, and even then, it still only covers a few appliance motors in your house. It doesn't cover any electronics or anything with a microchip. It doesn't even cover any wiring or outlets in your house. (See Post No. 36).

[photo1902]

You have homeowner's insurance to cover damage caused by mother nature. The surge protector warranty covers almost no damage in your house, especially by lightning. The lightning must actually travel through the nearest transformer to cover any damage, and even then, it still only covers a few appliance motors in your house. It doesn't cover any electronics or anything with a microchip. It doesn't even cover any wiring or outlets in your house. (See Post No. 36).

The way I look at it, and simply my opinion, is that for the slightly less than $400 I paid to have the SECO unit installed, if it saves even one device from failure, I'm completely fine with it. When I decided to make the purchase, I had no expectations that it would provide 100% protection. Again, it's a personal decision one needs to make.

[retiredguy123]

The way I look at it, and simply my opinion, is that for the slightly less than $400 I paid to have the SECO unit installed, if it saves even one device from failure, I'm completely fine with it. When I decided to make the purchase, I had no expectations that it would provide 100% protection. Again, it's a personal decision one needs to make.
I agree with your opinion. But, it is the principle that bothers me. The power company is using the sale of surge protectors as a gimmick to add to their profits. I have not seen any evidence to support the need for a surge protector on every house, and if they were really needed, the design engineers would have included the surge protection into the original system design.

[photo1902]

I agree with your opinion. But, it is the principle that bothers me. The power company is using the sale of surge protectors as a gimmick to add to their profits. I have not seen any evidence to support the need for a surge protector on every house, and if they were really needed, the design engineers would have included the surge protection into the original system design.

I totally get that.

[jrref]

In my opinion, you don't buy surge protectors for the insurance they may provide. That's a side benefit. You invest in them to significantly lessen the risk of home device damage due to power surges.

One thing I forgot to mention is even without lightning striking near your home creating an induced power surge, you get small power surges in your home every time the A/C, washing machine, microwave, large appliance, etc turns on. These small power surges can and do damage your sensitive electronic equipment over time. Have you ever heard someone tell you their TV stopped coming on all of a sudden for no reason? For these surges the "whole house" surge protector along with the point of use surge protectors will stop the damage from these types of surges.

[retiredguy123]

In my opinion, you don't buy surge protectors for the insurance they may provide. That's a side benefit. You invest in them to significantly lessen the risk of home device damage due to power surges.

One thing I forgot to mention is even without lightning striking near your home creating an induced power surge, you get small power surges in your home every time the A/C, washing machine, microwave, large appliance, etc turns on. These small power surges can and do damage your sensitive electronic equipment over time. Have you ever heard someone tell you their TV stopped coming on all of a sudden for no reason? For these surges the "whole house" surge protector along with the point of use surge protectors will stop the damage from these types of surges.
I agree about the point-of-use surge protectors reducing damage to electronic equipment, but surges caused by appliances turning on are not reduced by a whole house surge protector because that device is located on the outside meter. But, I think the power company should incorporate all cost effective surge protection measures into their overall system design, and not try to "nickel and dime" customers by selling them non-cost effective surge protection that the design engineers did not believe was needed. Most customers do not purchase the optional whole house surge protectors. If the surge protectors are needed, they should not be optional.

[jrref]

I agree about the point-of-use surge protectors reducing damage to electronic equipment, but surges caused by appliances turning on are not reduced by a whole house surge protector because that device is located on the outside meter. But, I think the power company should incorporate all cost effective surge protection measures into their overall system design, and not try to "nickel and dime" customers by selling them non-cost effective surge protection that the design engineers did not believe was needed. Most customers do not purchase the optional whole house surge protectors. If the surge protectors are needed, they should not be optional.

I meant the whole house surge protector installed at the circuit breaker panel along with point of use protectors will manage surges caused by appliances turning on and off. The function of the surge protector at the circuit breaker panel is any surge from any branch circuit will be shunted at the panel so it doesn't "spread" to other branch circuits. You are correct, the surge protector at the meter is too far away and not designed to shunt these types of surges. This is why surge protection is a layered approach. But I agree, the utility should supply the meter surge protector free of charge to guard against surges from THEIR system entering your home.

[lawngilander]

I was a licensed electrician before I retired. Would I be covered if I installed a Surge Protector myself?

[midiwiz]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

talk about getting scammed. there is no surge protector that will protect anything. the only way to protect electronics is to run off batteries and have the electric recharge the battery bank. It's called conditioned power.

The reason is because lightening is so fast electronics are too slow to catch the strike and prevent damage. Sorry to burst your bubble but those are the hard core facts.

[dhdallas]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

Surge protectors are for suckers. I have never used a surge protector or UPS and have never had an electrical device damaged or have it's life expectancy shortened by fluctuations of power in the past 60 years.

[HiHoSteveO]

Have never heard of surge protection unit at the air handler.
These two videos help to explain some of this though.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGpOwUAJ16c

Suppressing the Surge - This Old House (https://www.thisoldhouse.com/electrical/21014924/suppressing-the-surge)

[Robnlaura]

Hi Asianthree, Our type 2 Eaton Ultra whole home surge protector is designed to protect your whole home's equipment and major appliances from surge damage. I'd love to tell you more about it if you are in the market for more extensive protection - Casandra with Pike's Electric (352)748-6251
$71 bucks on Amazon

[Altavia]

Surge protectors are for suckers. I have never used a surge protector or UPS and have never had an electrical device damaged or have it's life expectancy shortened by fluctuations of power in the past 60 years.

There are two kinds of people in the world, those who can learn, and those who won't.

[Altavia]

The 2023 update to the the National Electrical Code now requires Surge Protection Devices.

Understanding the 2023 NEC Rules for Surge Protection (https://www.diteksurgeprotection.com/understanding-the-2023-nec-rules-for-surge-protection/#:~:text=Article%20230.67(C)%20of%20NEC,positioned %20on%20the%20load%20side).

Understanding NEC 2023 Requirements for Surge Protection

In NEC 2023, the code language of Section 230.67(A) was updated to further define “dwelling units”, now reading:

230.67(A) Surge-Protective Device. All services supplying the following occupancies shall be provided with a surge-protective device (SPD):

(1) Dwelling units

(2) Dormitory units

(3) Guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and motels

(4) Areas of nursing homes and limited-care facilities used exclusively as patient sleeping rooms

. . .

[jrref]

$71 bucks on Amazon

So the cost of the Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Ultimate Surge Protection 3rd Edition surge protector is around $137 with the faceplate at $30 on amazon which you will need so why do these electricial companies charge $500?

You also need a double $50 amp breaker about $20 installed in your circuit breaker panel that attaches the surge protector to the panel.

At the end of the day even when you add the cost of installation, about an hour tops, there is still a lot of profit to be made.

As to the question about installing one yourself, yes you can but remember here in the Villages the main breaker cut off is at the bottom of the circuit breaker panel so eventhough you turn off the main breaker you will be working around the main. That said, this would only be a self install for a person with electrical experience and even then it's probably not worth the risk of trying to install it yourself. Sometimes Pikes and Lenhardt run a sale where you can get this installed cheaper. I had mine installed by Pikes 2 years ago when I moved to the Villages for $400 but since then the prices have gone up. Either way think if it as an investment for your home to significantly lessen the risk of damage from power surges.

As for those naysayers, there is plenty of documented evidence that surge protectors work when installed and used properly. Do your research, it's a matter of electronics and physics. But also remember if you home is hit by lightning or right outside your home the power surge may be so large that there is no device that will protect you. The best you can hope for in that case is the surge protection plan you put in place will limit the damage you otherwise would have had if you had no surge protection at all.

Also, for point of use surge protection for computers, TVs, etc, I highly recommend the Tripplite products such as their ISOBAR6Ultra. This comes in 4, 6 and 8 outlet strips or the Tripp Lite TLP128TTUSBB 12 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip, 2 USB Charging Ports, Tel/Modem/Coax Protection. These are all UL certified, tested and very well made. All available on Amazon.

[pikeselectric]

$71 bucks on Amazon

Hi Rob and Laura - Would love to see the link you found on Amazon! I am curious if it is just the unit, or the entire package to install the unit, which requires a flush mount kit, a 2 pole 50 breaker applicable to your home's panel, which varies depending on the manufacturer, washers, etc.
Our price includes all materials needed, along with the labor for our technician to install it.
We also offer 5% off for TOTV members if you mention it :)

[pikeselectric]

Hi Jrref - We are happy you used us in the past for this install. We did see some increase in product costs within the last year for the product itself and especially breaker pricing and availability, our service labor rate also increased in early 2023, BUT we are proud to offer the lowest service call rate for the 1 hour minimum in our area. (We do our research ;)).
We offer a 5% off for Talk of The Villages members if you mention it when you call our office. We are also currently working on price REDUCTIONS on materials and changes moving in to 2024. We are constantly working to make sure we produce the best quality products at a price that is reasonable. We appreciate your business and your feedback on this post.

[pikeselectric]

The 2023 update to the the National Electrical Code now requires Surge Protection Devices.

Understanding the 2023 NEC Rules for Surge Protection (https://www.diteksurgeprotection.com/understanding-the-2023-nec-rules-for-surge-protection/#:~:text=Article%20230.67(C)%20of%20NEC,positioned %20on%20the%20load%20side).

Understanding NEC 2023 Requirements for Surge Protection

In NEC 2023, the code language of Section 230.67(A) was updated to further define “dwelling units”, now reading:

230.67(A) Surge-Protective Device. All services supplying the following occupancies shall be provided with a surge-protective device (SPD):

(1) Dwelling units

(2) Dormitory units

(3) Guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and motels

(4) Areas of nursing homes and limited-care facilities used exclusively as patient sleeping rooms

. . .

Good morning Altavia, The NEC 2023 code (although 2023) is not being adopted into Building code/Counties of residence in Florida at this time. However, NEC 2020 code begins 1/1/24 for Sumter, Lake, Marion counties. The 2023 code also requires any new construction dwellings to have surge protection that are going through construction/permitting. 2023 NEC is coming, but not yet. Counties adopt the codes when they are ready.

[Robnlaura]

Not required for warranty for any HVAC system I have ever owned.

I have two mini splits both have Intermatic AG3000 120/240 VAC Universal HVAC Surge Protective Device easy to install on the power supply.. basically they protect the logic board of the unit. For 65 bucks it’s worth it.. and it’s installable on a 220v ac system.. literally 3 wires a 10 minute job.. $500 odd as they say it costs is a joke.

[Altavia]

So the cost of the Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Ultimate Surge Protection 3rd Edition surge protector is around $137 with the faceplate at $30 on amazon which you will need so why do these electricial companies charge $500?

You also need a double $50 amp breaker about $20 installed in your circuit breaker panel that attaches the surge protector to the panel.

At the end of the day even when you add the cost of installation, about an hour tops, there is still a lot of profit to be made.

...

.

Good info.

If there is room in the panel, the Eaton BRNSURGE Type BR Whole-Panel Circuit Breaker Surge Protective Device is a much easier install and doesn't need the additional 50a breaker.

It has the same 20 kA nominal discharge current/108 kA surge capacity per phase as the CHSPT2ULTRA.

And has a bit of a technical advantage since the connections are closer to the power distribution bus.

If there is an unused 220v electric dryer or oven breaker, those can be removed and the suppressor installed in that slot.

[Altavia]

Good morning Altavia, The NEC 2023 code (although 2023) is not being adopted into Building code/Counties of residence in Florida at this time. However, NEC 2020 code begins 1/1/24 for Sumter, Lake, Marion counties. The 2023 code also requires any new construction dwellings to have surge protection that are going through construction/permitting. 2023 NEC is coming, but not yet. Counties adopt the codes when they are ready.

Thanks and understood that the local codes usually lag behind to give business time to catch up.

[FredMitchell]

Surge protectors are for suckers. I have never used a surge protector or UPS and have never had an electrical device damaged or have it's life expectancy shortened by fluctuations of power in the past 60 years.

This is an example of normalcy bias (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Normalcy_bias). That something has never happened before to you, do not mean that it won't happen in the future, to you or anyone else.

I never had an auto accident, before my first one.

[FredMitchell]

I'm one of the engineers in the Villages Lightning Study Group headed by Len Hathaway. We give presentations on Lightning protection and surge protection to many groups frequently in the Villages. If you have the time it's well worth it to go to one of the presentations so you can make your own informed decision.


I was struck by the fact that LPS was not even an option in a designer home here. My two previous houses in Princeton did have them. They were on a ridge between 250 and 400 feet MSL (above sea level). In the first, we had lightning strike a tree about 150 feet from the front of one house. There were chunks of wood from the explosion of the trunk on our front porch. Four foot sections about 50 feet from the trunk. The surge also triggered the window alarms (or the thunder did, not clear which).

I think I have only seen about 3 or 4 houses here with LPS, all in the same neighborhood. When and where are the presentations? How do we find this valuable information?

[Robnlaura]

Hi Rob and Laura - Would love to see the link you found on Amazon! I am curious if it is just the unit, or the entire package to install the unit, which requires a flush mount kit, a 2 pole 50 breaker applicable to your home's panel, which varies depending on the manufacturer, washers, etc.
Our price includes all materials needed, along with the labor for our technician to install it.
We also offer 5% off for TOTV members if you mention it :)

BRNSURGE Type BR Whole-Panel Circuit Breaker Surge Protective Device $61 bucks read the comments about how easy it is to install.. but worth paying an electrician if you don’t want the hassle! Eaton BRNSURGE Type BR Whole-Panel Circuit Breaker Surge Protective Device https://a.co/d/eJBt0OL

[Randall55]

There are two kinds of people in the world, those who can learn, and those who won't.Things are quite different in the Villages. MANY MANY have had electronics and appliances blown due to lightning strikes. You do not have to be hit directly. One strike can cause electronic problems on the entire street

[MrLonzo]

My HVAC fan would not shut off. The HVAC technician diagnosed it as a faulty fan motor control module and replaced it -- a very expensive repair. He said it's a VERY common problem at the Villages due to voltage surges which is detrimental to the low voltage mechanism in the module. I told him I had the SECO surge mitigator, but he said that would not help, but he did offer a special surge protector for the HVAC unit (~$200). I don't know how much of that is upselling and how much is true, but that's my experience.

[Robnlaura]

So the cost of the Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA Ultimate Surge Protection 3rd Edition surge protector is around $137 with the faceplate at $30 on amazon which you will need so why do these electricial companies charge $500?

You also need a double $50 amp breaker about $20 installed in your circuit breaker panel that attaches the surge protector to the panel.

At the end of the day even when you add the cost of installation, about an hour tops, there is still a lot of profit to be made.

As to the question about installing one yourself, yes you can but remember here in the Villages the main breaker cut off is at the bottom of the circuit breaker panel so eventhough you turn off the main breaker you will be working around the main. That said, this would only be a self install for a person with electrical experience and even then it's probably not worth the risk of trying to install it yourself. Sometimes Pikes and Lenhardt run a sale where you can get this installed cheaper. I had mine installed by Pikes 2 years ago when I moved to the Villages for $400 but since then the prices have gone up. Either way think if it as an investment for your home to significantly lessen the risk of damage from power surges.

As for those naysayers, there is plenty of documented evidence that surge protectors work when installed and used properly. Do your research, it's a matter of electronics and physics. But also remember if you home is hit by lightning or right outside your home the power surge may be so large that there is no device that will protect you. The best you can hope for in that case is the surge protection plan you put in place will limit the damage you otherwise would have had if you had no surge protection at all.

Also, for point of use surge protection for computers, TVs, etc, I highly recommend the Tripplite products such as their ISOBAR6Ultra. This comes in 4, 6 and 8 outlet strips or the Tripp Lite TLP128TTUSBB 12 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip, 2 USB Charging Ports, Tel/Modem/Coax Protection. These are all UL certified, tested and very well made. All available on Amazon.
Good info to have I use the Intermatic on each mini split probably overkill but very easy to install.. on a outside ac unit just as easy to install..
Intermatic AG3000 120/240 VAC Universal HVAC Surge Protective Device - Comprehensive Surge Protection, TPMOV Technology, Watertight Enclosure - UL Listed and Reliable https://a.co/d/5KecR0x

[Robnlaura]

I did love this comment by a buyer
“ my HVAC Capacitor was getting blown out every summer season from the electric company, and their rolling blackouts.
This would require Eddie, my local HVAC guy to come out for $99 and $25 for the capacitor.
So I did a little research and you should to.

Eddie now cleans the pool”

[metoo21]

///

[metoo21]

Good info to have I use the Intermatic on each mini split probably overkill but very easy to install.. on a outside ac unit just as easy to install..
Intermatic AG3000 120/240 VAC Universal HVAC Surge Protective Device - Comprehensive Surge Protection, TPMOV Technology, Watertight Enclosure - UL Listed and Reliable https://a.co/d/5KecR0x

This is a little better unit that provides some other protection like for brownouts, short cycle, etc. A little more expensive but worth it. Intermatic CD1-024R Compressor Defender Protects Central Air Conditioner / Heat Pump Compressors and Circuit Boards (https://www.amazon.com/Intermatic-CD1-024R-Compressor-Conditioner-Compressors/dp/B00L2HW9YK/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1I941J3W68O1X&keywords=intermatic+HVAC&qid=1702662621&s=hi&sprefix=intermatic+hvac%2Ctools%2C150&sr=1-2)

[retiredguy123]

My HVAC fan would not shut off. The HVAC technician diagnosed it as a faulty fan motor control module and replaced it -- a very expensive repair. He said it's a VERY common problem at the Villages due to voltage surges which is detrimental to the low voltage mechanism in the module. I told him I had the SECO surge mitigator, but he said that would not help, but he did offer a special surge protector for the HVAC unit (~$200). I don't know how much of that is upselling and how much is true, but that's my experience.
How did he know your issue was caused by a voltage surge? I think he just made it up.

[Keefelane66]

I'm waiting for retired Electrical Engineers' opinion “VT”

[jrref]

Good info to have I use the Intermatic on each mini split probably overkill but very easy to install.. on a outside ac unit just as easy to install..
Intermatic AG3000 120/240 VAC Universal HVAC Surge Protective Device - Comprehensive Surge Protection, TPMOV Technology, Watertight Enclosure - UL Listed and Reliable https://a.co/d/5KecR0x

The Intermatic AG3000 is a very good surge protector for hard wired devices. I have one installed at my HVAC unit outside and at the breaker box by my Hot Tub in addition to the Eaton at the circuit breaker box. Remember a layered approach is best.

[jrref]

BRNSURGE Type BR Whole-Panel Circuit Breaker Surge Protective Device $61 bucks read the comments about how easy it is to install.. but worth paying an electrician if you don’t want the hassle! Eaton BRNSURGE Type BR Whole-Panel Circuit Breaker Surge Protective Device https://a.co/d/eJBt0OL


The BRNSURGE is good and easy to install but the CHSPT2ULTRA has a much higher surge capacity.

[Indydealmaker]

I have a surge protector on my outside AC unit. The company now tells me I need a surge protector on the inside air handler. Is that necessary? Thank you for your assistance!

It can't hurt and it is cheap.

[pikeselectric]

Things are quite different in the Villages. MANY MANY have had electronics and appliances blown due to lightning strikes. You do not have to be hit directly. One strike can cause electronic problems on the entire street


Absolutely! We have heard of many random surge issues even on sunny days due to power company problems which have caused damage to garage door openers, TVs, etc.

[pikeselectric]

The BRNSURGE is good and easy to install but the CHSPT2ULTRA has a much higher surge capacity.

You are correct :) The BRNSURGE is a lower grade. We do not stock this unit for our service department. We recommend the top of the line option from Eaton, the Type 2 Ultra as it is backed with the limited lifetime warranty and $75,000 in damage coverage.

[Altavia]

How did he know your issue was caused by a voltage surge? I think he just made it up.

Surge voltages area a very common/likely failure mode for electronics that have been on service for a period of time.

Sometimes the failure does not occur immediately. The surge initially weakens the component (makes it pregnant...) but it doesn't fail until a later point in time.

If you have damage from a surge or lightening strike, it's common additional components to fail days/weeks after.

In my former life, we would retreive failed critical system components and perform testing/analysis to identify the cause of component failures.

[Altavia]

I was struck by the fact that LPS was not even an option in a designer home here. My two previous houses in Princeton did have them. They were on a ridge between 250 and 400 feet MSL (above sea level). In the first, we had lightning strike a tree about 150 feet from the front of one house. There were chunks of wood from the explosion of the trunk on our front porch. Four foot sections about 50 feet from the trunk. The surge also triggered the window alarms (or the thunder did, not clear which).

I think I have only seen about 3 or 4 houses here with LPS, all in the same neighborhood. When and where are the presentations? How do we find this valuable information?

The Villages installs LPS on critical infrastructure including many buildings in the squares, emergency response buildings, pump stations, etc.

You're most likely to see residental LPS near homes that have previously been stuck by lightening

I'm aware of at least three homes within 3mi of Everglades Rec center stuck, two severely damaged by fire, and repair had not started over a year later.

Homes south of 44 have metallic flexible gas lines in the attic. Strikes have occurred at the front corner of the garage where a steel pipe connects gas from there meter to flexible gas line in the attic.

There's other threads with more info if you want to search.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/weather-talk-515/lightning-strikes-villages-342082/?highlight=Lightening

5775 Henry Loop Linden Isle, June 2023

[jrref]

The Villages installs LPS on critical infrastructure including many buildings in the squares, emergency response buildings, pump stations, etc.

You're most likely to see residental LPS near homes that have previously been stuck by lightening

I'm aware of at least three homes within 3mi of Everglades Rec center stuck, two severely damaged by fire, and repair had not started over a year later.

Homes south of 44 have metallic flexible gas lines in the attic. Strikes have occurred at the front corner of the garage where a steel pipe connects gas from there meter to flexible gas line in the attic.

There's other threads with more info if you want to search.

All good information we talk about in our Lightning Study Group presentation, and in addition, when we talk to people about Lightning Protection systems most of the time the attitude is "It will never happen to me". Although the probability is relatively low, when a home in a Village gets hit especially if it burns down to the ground then many in that Village get a system. For an average Designer home the cost to install one is approximately $2,500. The price may be higher or lower depending on your homes size so you need to get an estimate. Deciding to invest in a system depends on your risk tolerance for this type of disaster. Please note that Lightning Protection Systems i.e. lightning rod grounding systems is a totally separate system from Surge Protection. LPS systems will protect your home from burning down to the ground if it takes a direct hit where Surge Protection protects your homes devices if lightning strikes near by and a surge is induced through the air or some other pathway to your home. If you are thinking of getting an estimate for a Lightning Protection System you want a UL certified installer. These three companies are certified and do many residential installations in the Villages.
A-1 LIGHTNING PROTECTION
352-465-0620

CENTRAL LIGHTNING PROTECTION
407-380-6995

TRIANGLE LIGHTNING PROTECTION
352-483-7020

[retiredguy123]

Surge voltages area a very common/likely failure mode for electronics that have been on service for a period of time.

Sometimes the failure does not occur immediately. The surge initially weakens the component (makes it pregnant...) but it doesn't fail until a later point in time.

If you have damage from a surge or lightening strike, it's common additional components to fail days/weeks after.

In my former life, we would retreive failed critical system components and perform testing/analysis to identify the cause of component failures.
It didn't sound like he was going to do any testing to determine why the electronics failed. It sounded to me like he was making an off-the-cuff remark in order to sell a surge protector.

[Altavia]

It didn't sound like he was going to do any testing to determine why the electronics failed. It sounded to me like he was making an off-the-cuff remark in order to sell a surge protector.

Understood, and good to be sceptical and get a second opinion.

However, based at least on my education and experience, and how much lightening we get here, I agree that a surge was a likely cause. The service tech probably had the same guidance from their experiences/training.

My general rule of thumb is if the cost to protect was more than 10% of the cost to replace, I'd probably not go for it.

Maybe higher if it risks going without air conditioning in August :)

[jrref]

Understood, and good to be sceptical and get a second opinion.

However, based at least on my education and experience, and how much lightening we get here, I agree that a surge was a likely cause. The service tech probably had the same guidance from their experiences/training.

My general rule of thumb is if the cost to protect was more than 10% of the cost to replace, I'd probably not go for it.

Maybe higher if it risks going without air conditioning in August :)
We will never know for sure but the company the tech worked for has probably seen and above average amount of failures and some may have been from an induced power surge which is why he brought it up. He probably should have told the homeowner to get a whole house surge procector like the Eaton Ultra and pointed him to an electrical contractor like Pikes or Lenhardt. Putting a surge protector on the air handler will only protect that one device while the whole house surge protector would protect everything.

[jrref]

The Villages installs LPS on critical infrastructure including many buildings in the squares, emergency response buildings, pump stations, etc.

You're most likely to see residental LPS near homes that have previously been stuck by lightening

I'm aware of at least three homes within 3mi of Everglades Rec center stuck, two severely damaged by fire, and repair had not started over a year later.

Homes south of 44 have metallic flexible gas lines in the attic. Strikes have occurred at the front corner of the garage where a steel pipe connects gas from there meter to flexible gas line in the attic.

There's other threads with more info if you want to search.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/weather-talk-515/lightning-strikes-villages-342082/?highlight=Lightening

5775 Henry Loop Linden Isle, June 2023

There are many sad stories like this one where a home was totally destroyed by lightning. We have documented stories where the homeowners were home when the strike happened and were able to call the fire department and prevented the house from burning down where as this one I believe the homeowners were away during the event and by the time the neighbors saw the fire, it was too late. Many will say that there insurance covers everything which is true but it can take a year or longer to have you home re-built and there is no recovery for the loss of all your personal or family items. I can tell you though, when this kind of tragedy happens people realize the risk is real and get a Lightning Protection system. Then they usually have to wait becasue the few certified installers get overwhelmed with work.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Play (https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2023/06/19/power-outages-waltham/)


“This morning, Waltham Firefighters responded to reports of multiple fires in Waltham due to a power surge,” a statement on the city’s website read.

The Boston Globe reports that the surge caused a fire in a single-family home on School Avenue. They also say that no one was injured, but 6 people were displaced.

⚠️𝘼𝙇𝙀𝙍𝙏! Eversource has experienced a power surge that has impacted various areas of Waltham. Traffic signals have been effected – Use caution! If you've experienced an outage, do not reuse power strips/surge protectors. More info will be relayed as it becomes available. pic.twitter.com/1VbsP6odmu

— City Of Waltham (@CityofWaltham) June 19, 2023
The blaze started when two light fixtures located near the front of the house exploded due to the surge and spread to the house, the Globe reports.
--------------------------------------------------------------


hmmm. . . . . might be something to consider since it does happen with electricity occasionally, even without lightning. .

but if you only consider your own personal experience, yours might have an insignificant sample size.. .

[Stu from NYC]

Play (https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2023/06/19/power-outages-waltham/)



hmmm. . . . . might be something to consider since it does happen with electricity occasionally, even without lightning. .

but if you only consider your own personal experience, yours might have an insignificant sample size.. .

May or may not protect you but for us we figured it was cheap insurance so why not.

[photo1902]

May or may not protect you but for us we figured it was cheap insurance so why not.

Same here.