Sensitive electronic systems (e.g., worship sound systems, phone systems, computers and computer modems, printers, fax machines and electronic pianos or organs) are susceptible to damage caused by lightning strikes and their resulting power surges. With billions of dollars’ worth of equipment now being lost each year to the effects of electronic overstress, surge protection is no longer a luxury but a recommended best practice. Fortunately lightning, to some degree, can be controlled. A properly installed lightning system can safely direct massive electrical currents to the ground.
There is absolutely no way to protect a piece of equipment in a part of a building that takes a direct hit by lightning. When a building is struck directly by lightning, the structure may be damaged. Usually, the building’s wiring will carry the electric surge to all vulnerable electronic equipment. A lightning protection system is a passive means of preventing property damage from the effects of a lightning strike. Protection systems work by directing lightning-produced electrical charges through a “path of least resistance” into the ground – avoiding a lightning discharge.
To assure the highest level of protection, churches are encouraged to have a licensed electrician install Underwriters Laboratories (UL)- listed surge protectors on electrical service panels. Often, your church’s electrical utility company has full-building surge protectors they will install for you for a monthly lease charge. Surge protectors are the first line of defense against the harmful electrical surges that can enter a structure via power transmission lines. By filtering and dissipating these surges, protectors prevent electrical fires and shield against electrical transient voltage. To protect specific electronic pieces of equipment, you can install UL-listed transient voltage surge suppressors. A qualified lightning protection specialist can make recommendations for surge protection tailored to the specific needs of a facility.
Keep in mind that most transient (or plug-in type) surge protectors use a component known as an MOV, which wears out with use. The power indication light on your surge protector may not be a reliable indication that the MOV is functioning. Thus, you will need to replace your transient surge protectors periodically. If you do use transient units, look for the following:
- A UL 1449 Suppressed Voltage rating of 330V
- Two or three stage suppression
- Clamping response time on the order of nanoseconds is good, picoseconds is better
- A warranty – especially one that will replace equipment in the event of failure
- Higher quality units, especially with indicator lights that show they are functioning. Many cheaper units may be useless after one surge, but have no indicator light to signify this. Thus, you have no way of knowing that the unit is no longer protecting your church equipment from electrical surges.
Related articles:
When lightning strikes
Lightning protection
Lightning safety
Lessons of loss
The information in this publication was compiled by Zurich Services Corporation from sources believed to be reliable. We do not guarantee the accuracy of this information or any results and further assume no liability in connection with this publication, including any information, methods or safety suggestions contained herein. Moreover, Zurich Services Corporation reminds you that this publication cannot be assumed to contain every acceptable safety and compliance procedure or that additional procedures might not be appropriate under the circumstances. The subject matter of this publication is not tied to any specific insurance product nor will adopting these procedures insure coverage under any insurance policy. ©2008 Zurich Services Corporation