Why You Need A Lightning Protection System In Your Home

Did you know that lightning protection systems aren't just reserved for skyscrapers? That's right. Even your home could benefit greatly from installing a lightning protection system, especially if you live in an area where lightning storms are common. According to the National Weather Service, the United States has, on average, reported 27 lightning-related fatalities per year in the last 10 years, and 90% of those struck by lightning are left with disabilities of varying extents. If this isn't a risk you're willing to take for your and your family's wellbeing, a lightning protection system is something you should seriously consider.

So what exactly is a lightning protection system? According to East Coast Lightning Equipment, it provides the lightning current with a safe path to follow — it does not attract, repel, or prevent a lightning strike. Allowing a safe path for it ensures the current that might otherwise cause harm to your home is safely directed to the ground, protecting your home from a potential catastrophe.

As nVent explains, although staying indoors is the safest place to be during lightning, this doesn't necessarily mean you are 100% safe from being struck. Electrical appliances such as the television, computers, or alarm systems in your home increase the risk of your home's vulnerability to lightning. This is why it's so important that modern homes are protected from lightning.

Michigan Lightning Protection also emphasizes that installing a lightning protection system in your home will protect your valuable electronic devices from surges. The wiring in your home, the circuit breaker, and even electronics like smartphones can be at risk if they are plugged in. Installing a protection system can save you a substantial amount of money that would otherwise cost you to replace all the damaged electrical work and appliances in your home.

This is why modern homes are much more vulnerable to lightning strikes than older ones, as the growing trend of technology and smart homes doesn't seem to be slowing down any time soon.

An added benefit to installing a lightning protection system is that it boosts the value of your home, says Property Casualty 360, noting that they are much cheaper to install than other amenities such as security systems or high-end appliances. They also note that you might even get discounts on your home insurance simply for having a lightning protection system installed.

It's also important to note that, according to Michigan Lightning Protection, lightning strikes can cause explosions in homes with CSST (corrugated stainless steel tubing). CSST is usually used for piping in homes as it is flexible. However, the material is extremely vulnerable to lightning strikes and, if struck, can result in a gas explosion. A lightning protection system can help you prevent this type of unwanted disaster. If you are considering getting a lightning protection system installed, make sure you contact a professional instead of opting to do it yourself.