Five Items You Should Always Unplug Before A Storm
Spring and summer storms are a fact of life across the South. One minute, the sky is blue and free of clouds, and the next, the thunder rolls in and lightning flashes. While you might remember to stay indoors and park in the garage during severe weather, you may forget that a thunderstorm can also wreak havoc on the electronics and appliances inside the house.
Lightning strikes and power outages can trigger power surges, which happen when a sudden spike of electricity moves through a home’s wiring system. Even a brief surge can damage sensitive electronics, fry internal circuits, shorten an appliance’s lifespan, or destroy devices altogether. Surge damage doesn’t always happen instantly. Repeated, smaller surges can wear down electronics over time.
That is why you might want to unplug a few household items before severe weather arrives, especially during thunderstorms with frequent lightning.
Why Power Surges Can Be So Damaging
A power surge occurs when electrical voltage suddenly increases above normal levels. Lightning strikes are among the most common causes during storms, but surges can also occur when power lines are damaged or when electricity is restored after an outage.
Modern homes are filled with sensitive electronics that rely on tiny microprocessors and circuit boards. Those components are especially vulnerable to sudden electrical spikes. Even devices that are turned off may still be susceptible if they remain plugged into an outlet.
Unplug Electronics First
If severe weather is headed your way, start with your most expensive and sensitive electronics. Televisions, desktop computers, laptops, gaming systems, tablets, Wi-Fi routers, and printers are all common surge casualties during thunderstorms.
Phone and laptop chargers should also be unplugged. Chargers may seem harmless, but they can still transfer surge damage to connected devices. If possible, unplug these items before the storm begins rather than waiting until lightning is already nearby.
Consider Smart Home Devices
Today’s homes are packed with connected devices, from smart thermostats and voice assistants to video doorbells and smart kitchen gadgets. While these devices make life more convenient, they also create more opportunities for surge damage.
Smart plugs, smart lighting hubs, streaming devices, and connected home security systems can all be affected by power fluctuations during a storm. Devices connected to cable, internet, or satellite systems can also be sensitive because surges can travel through those connections.
Remember Kitchen Appliances
Don’t forget about smaller kitchen appliances; these can be damaged during a severe storm as well. Items like microwaves, air fryers, coffee makers, toasters, stand mixers, and countertop ovens are prone to surges. These appliances contain electronic displays, digital clocks, and internal circuit boards that can be affected by unstable electricity.
Attend to Space Heaters and Window Units
Portable air conditioners, window units, and space heaters draw significant amounts of power, which can make them more susceptible to electrical disturbances. Window air-conditioning units might run continuously during the summer, making them even more sensitive during a storm. Power interruptions followed by sudden restoration can strain motors and compressors.
Protect Large Appliances
Major appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers are generally built to handle some electrical fluctuation, but they aren’t completely immune to surge damage. Modern refrigerators and laundry machines often contain sophisticated electronic control panels and digital components that can be expensive to replace.
Unplugging every large appliance before a storm is not always practical. Refrigerators, for example, are often left plugged in to avoid food spoilage. In those cases, surge protection becomes especially important.
Include Outdoor Electronics
Outdoor electrical equipment is frequently exposed to storm damage because it is directly connected to exterior wiring systems. Patio televisions, outdoor speakers, decorative lighting, bug zappers, electric grills, above-ground pool pumps, and extension cords should all be unplugged before severe weather arrives. Pool equipment deserves particular attention because water and electricity create a dangerous combination during storms.
Can Surge Protectors Replace Unplugging?
Surge protectors can help reduce the risk of damage, but be cautious, as they aren’t foolproof. Standard surge protectors are designed to absorb smaller voltage spikes. However, a direct or nearby lightning strike can create a surge strong enough to overwhelm even high-quality surge protectors.
Whole-home surge protection systems offer another layer of defense. These systems are installed directly into a home’s electrical panel and help shield appliances and electronics throughout the house. Still, when severe thunderstorms are approaching, unplugging remains the safest option whenever possible.
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