[hellothere123]

Hi. Just a general post. I have a 1980 house and wondering ways to endure the electrical is safe. Since I didn’t build the house I’m going to check all electrical connections and wiring to make sure it’s safe. Couple questions... should I get a surge protector instss as liked for the entire house? I’ve seen people do this on Reno shows. I’ve read power bars should only be a temporary thing and that you should plug directly into an outlet. But what I’d the danger? Everyone uses these and I have surge protection on some so it helps protect some devices. I wouldn’t use one on a device that will demand a lot of power.
Finally a little tidbit. I read today that during a thunderstorm to not use water or have a bath or shower, or use a corded phone. I guess if there is a real close strike then the electrical and plumbing could get a surge.
Also wondering if using battery only powered smoke alarms is ok. Currently in the house they aren’t wired. Thanks

 

[Drachenfire]

I suggest you go with a whole house surge suppressor and if you have an audio-video system, they should be connected to a power conditioner.

Last year September, we had a severe thunderstorm pass through the area. The electricity discharge must have been massive since after a particularly intense lightning flash, one of my door alarm sensors made a whining noise for about 10 seconds (scared the crap out of me).

Found out afterwards that my electrical system took a hit as well. The surge took out 15-year-old surge protector and severely damaged my A/V receiver.

I installed an Eaton whole house surge protection device (SPD) and replaced the A/V power conditioner with a Panamax M5300-PM 11.

With some simple precautions, the SPD was relatively easy to install. Took me about 40 minutes. You do have to purchase and install a 2-pole 50 amp circuit breaker preferably at the top of the panel which means moving all the other breakers down.

 

[ktownskier]

I would still use surge protectors, not just power strips, on all of my devices. Good quality, high joule rated.

There is no problem plugging devices into surge protectors for an extended period of time. It is not a good idea to plug devices into extension cords for long periods of time though. That could be what you heard.