I live in Central Florida so lightening is a big deal. There are roof protection systems (lightening rods) that guard against a direct strike to the house. These run about $2500.
There are also electrical panel protection systems that guard against surges from hits to the ground or hits to the main wiring miles away. These run about $500-$1000.
To get protection that is 99% effective, you need both systems in conjunction with plug in wall surge protectors. Leave any of these out and your protection drops. And yes, cable, phone and inground sprinkler systems are weak points and require their own protection.
Realistically, you can do all of the above or none of the above and just leave your system unplugged except for when in use.
I have a lightening app on my phone that warns me of lightening within 10 miles (essential for when you are on the golf course) which helps me to decide when to unplug (the only real guarantee of safety). I unplug if I'm going out of town and if there is a bad storm. And most importantly, I have good homeowners insurance.
The Florida power companies definitely suggest a panel surge protection system along with wall suppression as a minimum.
I have had neighbors experience both direct and indirect hits with damage ranging from a lot to a little. None had protection before the hit, all added protection after the hit.
So far, I've been spared.
There are also electrical panel protection systems that guard against surges from hits to the ground or hits to the main wiring miles away. These run about $500-$1000.
To get protection that is 99% effective, you need both systems in conjunction with plug in wall surge protectors. Leave any of these out and your protection drops. And yes, cable, phone and inground sprinkler systems are weak points and require their own protection.
Realistically, you can do all of the above or none of the above and just leave your system unplugged except for when in use.
I have a lightening app on my phone that warns me of lightening within 10 miles (essential for when you are on the golf course) which helps me to decide when to unplug (the only real guarantee of safety). I unplug if I'm going out of town and if there is a bad storm. And most importantly, I have good homeowners insurance.
The Florida power companies definitely suggest a panel surge protection system along with wall suppression as a minimum.
I have had neighbors experience both direct and indirect hits with damage ranging from a lot to a little. None had protection before the hit, all added protection after the hit.
So far, I've been spared.