In this article, we are going to explore the two types of devices used to protect your electronic devices from unexpected voltage spikes – lightning arrestor devices and surge protectors. While both types of devices help prevent electrical surges, they are designed to provide protection in different ways and each has specific applications. In this article, we are going to look not only at the differences between these two devices but also how they work and determine which device is best for you based on your unique circumstances.
What is a Lightning Arrestor?
A lightning arrestor or lightning rod is an important part of the electrical equipment used to protect buildings, telephone and other communications systems and structures from lightning strikes. The purpose of a lightning arrestor is to provide a safe way for the electrical current produced by the lightning strike to travel from the structure to the ground; therefore protecting the structure from being damaged by lightning. Typically, a lightning arrestor for a building consists of a conductive rod mounted on the roof of the building and connected to a grounding system. In addition, many industrial facilities use lightning arrestor equipment for transformers and substations to protect against higher voltages.
What is a Surge Protector?
Surge protectors are devices that protect electrical devices and appliances from voltage spikes. These spikes are caused by events such as lightning strikes, power surges caused by the electric grid or faulty equipment. Surge protectors are available in many forms, including power strips or stand-alone devices. The primary way that surge protectors protect the devices connected to them is through the use of components commonly referred to as metal oxide varistors (MOVs). MOVs absorb and redirect excess voltage away from the devices connected to the surge protector, thereby providing protection to the connected devices.
What’s the Difference Between a Lightning Arrester and a Surge Protector?
Both devices protect your equipment from an electrical surge; however, there are some significant differences to consider that affect their use:
1. Different Purposes: A lightning arrester protects your equipment directly from an electrical discharge caused when lightning strikes, while a surge protector protects your equipment from voltage spikes created by everything else (other than direct lightning strikes).
2. Installation Location: You would typically install a lightning arrester on a rooftop or high structure, while you would install a surge protector at the location where your electrical device is connected.
3. Protection Area: A lightning arrester will protect the entire structure; therefore, it is a broad protection method, whereas a surge protector is used for individual devices or groups of devices.
Questions & Answers
Are a lightning arrester and surge protector the same?
A lightning arrester is an electrical device that protects your equipment from electrical surges and is typically located at the top of structures like buildings, telephone towers, etc., while surge protector devices protect your equipment from surges created from other devices (not caused by lightning) and are typically located at the plug for the device you wish to protect. Therefore, while both devices protect your equipment from surges, they do so for different reasons.
Will a surge protector protect from lightning?
Surge protectors will help to protect against surges created by lightning; however, they are not as effective as lightning arresters at doing so. Therefore, a combination of both devices is necessary to successfully protect your equipment.
What is the purpose of lightning rods?
Lightning rods offer a low-resistance path for lightning to take, directing the energy into the ground and away from the structure. Thus, they can prevent electrical surges that could otherwise cause damage to building materials or electrical systems.
What is the best location for a lightning rod?
Lightning rods are typically installed on roofs or at the highest point of a structure to achieve maximum effectiveness when intercepting lightning strikes. In industrial applications such as substations, they may also be installed on equipment like transformers themselves, in order to offer overvoltage protection.
How long does a surge protection device (SPD) last?
Unlike other electrical devices, SPDs typically experience a limited life based largely on the amount of surge activity they absorb (and their overall quality). Although some SPDs have been known to last several years, it is important to monitor their condition and replace regularly, especially after a major surge event.
Is a lightning rod necessary if I already have surge protection devices?
A surge protection device protects only individual devices; whereas a lightning rod protects the entire structure by intercepting a lightning strike before it has a chance to damage the building or its occupants. If you live in an area that experiences frequent thunderstorm activity, it would be a good idea to have both surge protective devices and lightning rods installed for your complete safety.
Can I install a lightning rod by myself?
The installation of lightning rods requires relative knowledge about proper electrical grounding, therefore, it is best left up to qualified professionals. If not properly installed, lightning rods may not adequately protect and may cause injury as well.
What kinds of lightning rods are available?
Yes. Stations use larger lightning rods while residences or commercial properties may use smaller versions.
Will lightning rods protect my electronics?
No. Lightning rods provide the protection for the structure of your home. They keep the lightning from getting inside of your home. Therefore, a surge protector acts as an additional layer of protection for your electronics.
Will a surge protector be overloaded?
Yes. Surges may cause damage to the device and cause issues with electrical appliances. Using a surge protector rated for the number of appliances that will be used with it is very important.
Gaining a solid understanding of the difference between a lightning rod and surge protector is key in maximizing both the safety of your electrical systems and the level of protection you have in these systems. Each serves a different purpose; you need to understand your needs and the environment you’re in and therefore implement both solutions. Making informed decisions regarding electrical protection will help provide your property with the best possible level of protection against unexpected electrical surges.