Can a lightning strike bypass a surge protector?

Lightning Strike and Surge Protector

Yes, it is possible for a lightning strike to bypass a surge protector and cause damage to electronic devices. Surge protectors are designed to absorb and redirect transient voltage spikes, such as those caused by lightning, away from sensitive electronic equipment, providing some level of protection.

However, severe lightning strikes generate an immense amount of energy that can overwhelm even the best surge protectors. If the lightning strike is directly on or very close to the power lines or the electrical equipment, the surge protector might not have enough capacity to handle such an extreme surge, and the excess energy can still reach and damage the connected devices.

Protect Electronics from Lightning Strikes

To further protect your electronics from lightning strikes, you can take the following precautions:

1. Unplug devices during thunderstorms: If possible, unplug sensitive electronics during thunderstorms to eliminate the risk of lightning damage entirely.
2. Use multiple layers of protection: Implement a layered approach to surge protection by using high-quality surge protectors at the outlets and additional protection at the electrical panel. Whole-house surge protection systems can provide added security.
3. Surge protectors with a higher joule rating: Surge protectors are rated in joules, indicating their capacity to handle surges. Opt for surge protectors with a higher joule rating to better withstand powerful surges.
4. Grounding: Ensure that the surge protectors are correctly grounded, as proper grounding plays a vital role in their effectiveness.
5. Lightning rods and conductors: Installing lightning rods on structures can provide an additional layer of protection by directing lightning strikes away from the building and its electrical systems.

While surge protectors offer valuable protection against most electrical surges, including smaller lightning-induced surges, no system can guarantee complete protection against all lightning strikes. In cases of severe storms, it’s always best to prioritize safety and disconnect sensitive electronics from the power source entirely.