[retiredguy123]

I would just ask, if these surge protectors are so inexpensive and offer cost effective protection against electrical surges and lightning, then why aren't they required by the electrical code? I believe that the reason is that they are not effective. They are just another way for the electric companies and contractors to make additional profit by making false claims. Most houses don't have them, and don't have significant damage to their appliances and electronics.

[Stu from NYC]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

I would just ask, if these surge protectors are so inexpensive and offer cost effective protection against electrical surges and lightning, then why aren't they required by the electrical code? I believe that the reason is that they are not effective. They are just another way for the electric companies and contractors to make additional profit by making false claims. Most houses don't have them, and don't have significant damage to their appliances and electronics.

Wonder why they are not in fact required by code?

[Windguy]

Originally Posted by nututv

Unplug what you don't want fried in a storm.
Millions of volts travelling many miles at supersonic speeds are not going to be stopped in their tracks by a made made device half the size of a shoebox. lol

I believe the issue isn’t how to protect your equipment from a rare direct hit by lightning, but how to protect it from common surges in the electrical grid. Surge suppression is a really good idea.

[Windguy]

Originally Posted by Stuart Zaikov

Lady I spoke to says we get a warranty that covers lightning damage to all appliances but does not cover computers or TV.

Any good power-strip surge suppressor or UPS will include a warranty that covers anything plugged into it.

[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by Windguy

I believe the issue isn’t how to protect your equipment from a rare direct hit by lightning, but how to protect it from common surges in the electrical grid. Surge suppression is a really good idea.

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?

[johnadamsUSMC]

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?

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

[Lightning]

All utilities (electric, water, gas, telephone,CATV) are are only responsible for their service on their side of the meter. After the meter it is you the homeowner who is responsible. Every year there are residents who experience preventable damage to TVs, computers, appliances, garage door operators, etc. due to an indirect lightning strike without surge protection. It is up to you to do your own due diligence. Lightning is not addressed in the National Electric Code. It is addressed in NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems,2020, including surge protection. Healthcare and and educational facilities must comply under the building code. It is not required for residential properties but does provide sound guidance based on decades of experience with lightning. A good reference is University of Florida professor Dr. Martin Uman's book, The Art and Science of Lightning Protection. This book can be found in TV Belvedere Library.

[Stu from NYC]

Originally Posted by Lightning

All utilities (electric, water, gas, telephone,CATV) are are only responsible for their service on their side of the meter. After the meter it is you the homeowner who is responsible. Every year there are residents who experience preventable damage to TVs, computers, appliances, garage door operators, etc. due to an indirect lightning strike without surge protection. It is up to you to do your own due diligence. Lightning is not addressed in the National Electric Code. It is addressed in NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems,2020, including surge protection. Healthcare and and educational facilities must comply under the building code. It is not required for residential properties but does provide sound guidance based on decades of experience with lightning. A good reference is University of Florida professor Dr. Martin Uman's book, The Art and Science of Lightning Protection. This book can be found in TV Belvedere Library.

Thanks for the info. Interesting that Lightning would weigh in on Lightning

[Topspinmo]

Originally Posted by Bogie Shooter

In The Villages?

Yes, in the villages I see them all over. Digital antennas are unusual looking, nothing like the old Tv antennas of 50s.