Jakarta –
When I was little, my parents reminded me to Unplug all electronic cables when it rains accompanied by lightning. He said, this can save electronic goods from the risk of being damaged by being struck by lightning. Is that true?
Quoted from CNET, the Department of Homeland Security says that you should unplug all electronics. This is because lightning striking near local electricity poles can cause a surge in electricity through power lines.
North American outlets are designed for 120 volts and can withstand up to 169 volts. In other areas, the figure can rise to 240 volts. However, when lightning creates an electrical surge, the voltage can be so much higher that it can ‘bake’ connected equipment.
Therefore, even though lightning surges are rare, you should at least unplug electronic devices such as TVs or game consoles. Furthermore, it is recommended to unplug electronic devices before a storm hits the area for safety reasons.
Is it safe to use a fuse?
Many people think that protector current surge (fuse) will save electronic goods from power surges caused by lightning, even though they don’t. Fuses are intended to protect against small surges common to electrical networks that occur from time to time. They can help reduce power surges before they reach your devices, but are not designed to protect items from the massive power surges that occur during lightning strikes.
What can protect your devices is a surge protector or whole-house suppressor. These are much more expensive than regular fuses. but it will help suppress large power surges caused by lightning entering your home through power lines. However, that doesn’t mean it can keep your house safe from lightning strikes.
Watch the video “Appearance of a mosque in Jagakarsa after being struck by lightning”
(ask/afr)
2024-03-13 23:15:50
#unplug #lightning
