Don't Run The Risk: The Appliance You Need To Unplug Before A Storm Hits

When you hear the faint rumbling of storms in the distance, it's wise to protect your home and its appliances against any electrical harm. One potential risk associated with these storms is power surges, which is why you should unplug certain appliances such as your TV, computer, or gaming console. A power surge can easily damage your equipment, frying their circuit boards and other electronic components. Unplugging your television and other vulnerable appliances before a thunderstorm strikes will help you protect your investment and avoid a repair or replacement.

A power surge occurs when the voltage in your home's electric current briefly spikes above normal. While some power surges may come from faulty wiring or problems with your utility company, some result from lightning strikes. When the surge occurs, it sends thousands or millions more volts briefly into your home's electrical wiring, sometimes causing flickering or dim lights. The high voltage can quickly damage your appliances, especially a TV or computer, leading to issues like humming or buzzing noises, flickering screens, or an inability to turn on at all. Surge protectors are one defense against lightning strikes, but they aren't a guaranteed safeguard against all threats, and experts recommend completely unplugging your electronics before a storm arrives.

It's critical to avoid certain activities at all costs during a thunderstorm, particularly those involving water and wiring. While turning off your electronic equipment is an important first step in preparing, you should always go the next step and unplug appliances such as your TV or computer before (not during!) an active storm, or you may risk electrocution if the surge travels through the cord as you hold it. If there's a storm nearby, remember that if you can hear the rumble of thunder, lightning is close enough to strike. You should stay aware, as lightning has the ability to strike 10 to 15 miles away from a storm and potentially harm your devices. After the storm seems to have passed, wait about 30 minutes before plugging in your appliances.

While it may be annoying to unplug all of your appliances, you will likely be more frustrated over the potential repair and replacement costs of your gear. Homeowners insurance may cover losses from lightning strikes, but pulling the plug on your television is always much easier than going through a claims process. Taking the time to walk your home, check outlets, and unplug your equipment is a smart choice that will give you critical peace of mind. For even greater protection of these appliances and other items in your home, you can hire an electrician to install a whole-home surge protector or a lightning protection system.