14/10/2022
Lightning does not have to hit a home directly to affect the things inside it. If there’s something around the house that can conduct electricity, such as copper pipes or wires, there will be a pathway for the lightning to enter the house. There are 4 ways lightning can strike:
1. a direct strike (not common)
2. a side flash - this happens when lightning strikes a taller object and then “jumps” to another object
3. a ground current - when the energy from the lightning strike travels along the surface of the ground
4. conduction is when electricity travels through wires or metal surfaces. This is the greatest risk to home security systems.
Regardless of how the electric current enters your home, wired home security systems are especially vulnerable because they are connected by metal wiring. Anything that’s connected by these wires can be damaged from a lightning strike because of how metal conducts electricity. If unprotected, the high-voltage power from a lightning strike can overload the equipment and permanently damage or destroy it.
How can you improve the protection of your alarm system against by lightning:
1. effective grounding, and
2. surge protection.
Grounding is a safety mechanism that connects electrical circuits to the earth. This protects the system from overloading by triggering a fuse or circuit breaker. Most homes are grounded with structural steel beams and a metal rod connected to the home’s electrical panel.
To protect outdoor alarm sensors and security cameras from lightning strikes, avoid mounting them on metal. If these have to be mounted on metal, be sure to use a proper grounding system or a small copper strap.
Inside the home, surge protection is another way to prevent a lightning strike from destroying your security system and other vulnerable devices. Most alarm device manufacturers are aware of the threat lightning poses to their systems, and typically build protection methods into the units. Most alarm equipment will have surge protection built-in, typically on the motherboard. This surge protection is limited, however.
If your CCTV, beams, and/or alarm system are struck by lightning you will know straight away as it will no longer be functional. The good news is that you can claim from the insurance on your property’s bond. If your alarm system has been installed after this insurance was finalised, it is wise to contact your insurers to make them aware of your new alarm system.
Get your alarm system repaired as quickly as possible as criminals are quick to take advantage after electrical storms.