Thunderstorms are natural phenomena that can pose a significant risk to home safety due to the sudden increase in electrical voltage, which can damage electrical devices and, in some cases, even cause fires. This voltage surge often results from lightning discharges in the surrounding environment, impacting the public power grid and sending a powerful current into homes and buildings.
Why should some appliances be turned off during thunderstorms?
When a thunderstorm strikes a particular area, lightning releases high energy into the atmosphere, creating unsafe voltage spikes. As these voltage surges flow through the power grid, household appliances are subjected to excessive electrical loads, which can erode internal components or cause permanent damage. This may lead to internal sparking within electrical circuits, potentially igniting fires that threaten the safety of the home and its occupants.
To safeguard homes from the dangers of thunderstorms, it is advisable to use protective tools such as lightning arresters and surge protectors. These devices help mitigate the risks associated with electrical surges from lightning, preserving the safety of appliances and reducing the likelihood of fires.
Why should some devices be disconnected during a thunderstorm?
The most vulnerable devices are typically those that consume a higher amount of energy or are designed with complex electronic systems, such as televisions, computers, washing machines, and refrigerators.
Disconnecting these electrical devices during a storm is a precautionary measure that protects both the devices and the home's electrical system. Additionally, it can prevent costly damages and reduce the risk of short circuits and fires.
For example, for people living in areas prone to frequent storms, many experts recommend installing protection systems, such as surge protectors, which help regulate energy and prevent high loads from reaching the home. However, while these devices are helpful, disconnecting the devices directly from the power source remains the safest option.
Check out the list of the most dangerous appliances
- Television and Entertainment Equipment: Televisions, sound systems, video game consoles, and other entertainment devices are designed with delicate electronic components that can easily burn out if overloaded. Additionally, these devices are often placed near windows or in well-ventilated areas, increasing the risk of an electrical short during a thunderstorm.
- Computers and Office Equipment: Computers, printers, and other office equipment are also at risk. Overloading can damage hard drives and other crucial components, leading to irreversible data loss. It is highly recommended to disconnect and protect them. Additionally, phone and tablet chargers should also be unplugged, as they are designed to receive lower power and are more prone to burning out during a power surge.
- Large Appliances like Refrigerators and Washers: While essential for the home, unplugging refrigerators and washers during a thunderstorm can help prevent potential fires. These devices are designed to handle large electrical loads, but when connected to high-voltage sources, a power surge can cause significant damage. It is advisable, whenever possible, to disconnect them temporarily and avoid opening them to maintain the internal temperature of food and water in the washer under optimal conditions until the storm passes.
In addition to these major devices, other appliances like microwaves and air conditioners should also be unplugged, as they are sensitive to voltage fluctuations, and their proximity to cables can increase the risk of a short circuit.
There are systems that can enhance home security against electrical storms. An effective option is using surge protectors or voltage regulators, which help mitigate the impact of power surges. These devices can be installed in commonly used outlets or as a central system in the home’s electrical panel. There are also grounding systems for certain appliances, which allow extra power to be directed to the ground, thus protecting the devices.
