4 Signs Lightning Hit Your Home & What to Do About It

Written By Cheyenne Bussey

Roughly one in every 200 homes is struck by lightning each year, some causing fires, property damage and even death. If you think your house was struck by lightning, checking your home for the warning signs is crucial for your family’s safety.

  • Smoke damage - Visually inspect your roof for dirty gray or dark patches and black scorch marks.

  • Cracked brick - Inspect brick siding for cracks and splits caused by intense temperatures.

  • Appliance damage - Make sure your appliances are functioning correctly. Appliance circuit boards can be easily damaged by voltage surges caused by lightning.

  • Damaged electrical devices - 

    • Check the area around your electrical service panel for smoke marks, usually indicating wire damage. If smoke marks are visible, call an electrician before inspecting the panel further. 

    • Surge protector power strips may also fail after a voltage surge. 

    • AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers tripped, especially after no apparent short circuit, may also be an indicator.

    • GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets contain delicate components that can be damaged during a lightning strike. Check for tripped outlets and test them for proper functioning using the test and reset buttons.


What to Do About Lightning Strikes

  • If your home is struck by lightning, call the fire department to check for any undetectable dangers or damage.

  • Contact a licensed electrician to schedule an electrical inspection if you do not feel confident inspecting the electrical system yourself.

  • Make sure electronics are protected by surge protection power strips.

  • Contact a licensed electrician to install a whole house surge protection device.


Whole House Surge Protection Devices

Whole house surge protection devices are designed to deliver AC surge protection for the entire AC power system in a home. They are compact in size and relatively affordable. These devices are installed at your electrical panel, stopping surges before they enter the home. Some commercial grade devices have audible alarms and LED lights to indicate service needs. Most offer a 10 year product and connected equipment warranty as well! Call us today for your free estimate.

Cheyenne Bussey
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UNDERSTANDING GFCI OUTLETS