As much as thunderstorms and lighting bring excitement and awe, they also become a source of risks and challenges for your electronic items. Lightning strikes result in sudden power outages and power surge, which can prove to be harmful for your electronic devices. We’ve crafted a comprehensive guide to help you keep your electronics safe during thunderstorms.
Do’s and Don’ts During Lightning to Safeguard Electronics
It is essential to protect your electronics from lightning and thunderstorms. Although information regarding this can be difficult to authenticate and rely on, hence I have compiled a list of Do’s and Don’ts during lightning.
What should we do during Lightning and Thunderstorm
Unplug Devices
Anything connected to electrical outlets can be dangerous and risky during thunderstorms as these devices conduct power surge. It is essential to unplug your electronic equipment from the main power supply as it protects your electronic devices from power surges, voltage spikes, and electromagnetic interferences. Complete disconnection from the main power supply ensures avoidance of fire risks and electromagnetic interferences.
Use Power Surge Protectors
During lightning and thunderstorms, fluctuations and spikes in voltage are commonly witnessed that can pose serious danger to your electronic devices. Installation of surge protectors at your main electric panel adds a layer of protection to all your devices at home and office. These protectors safeguard your electronic devices from power surge and increase their lifespan. You can find top-rated surge protectors on OLX, especially designed to protect your electronic devices and gadgets under adverse weather conditions.
Backup Your Data
Enjoyment of the monsoon season multiplies when you don’t have to worry about your important data. Backup of data ensures that you don’t lose anything, in case your electronic devices are damaged due to lightning and storms. Always backup your data in external devices such as hard drives or cloud storage. The storage of important data to external devices ensures the availability of your data and files irrespective of the weather conditions. OLX offers you a range of hard drives that allow you essential storage for your media, files, and data.
Also Read: Monsoon Myths Busted: Keeping Your Tech, Pets, and Car Safe
What should we avoid during lightning and thunderstorms?
Leave Devices Plugged-In
Thunderstorm lightning leads to electrical surges that get transferred from power lines to your devices such as laptops, televisions, charger, and other electronic devices. Leaving electronics devices plugged in can be dangerous as power surges and voltage spikes can damage your valuable devices. To replace damaged devices, OLX offers a wide variety of electronic devices at reasonable prices to suit your needs.
Rely Completely on Power Strips
Power strips require special attention during thunderstorms as they connect multiple devices to a single electrical outlet at one time. Thunderstorms induce sudden high voltage surges that travel through power strips and damage the connected devices. Moreover, the connection of too many devices to a single electrical outlet can result in overheating, circuit breaks, and potential fire hazards. It is advised to not rely solely on power strips during adverse weather conditions like thunderstorms and lightning.
Place Electronics Near Windows
Electronics and windows are not an ideal combination for situations like thunderstorms and lightning as they pose significant risks to both electronics and your personal safety. Placing electronic devices near windows during lightning storms can result in immediate and complete destruction of your devices as the windows do not provide any protective layer from lightning strikes. Lightning generates electromagnetic fields that can cause malfunction of your electronic devices. It is highly recommended that you move your valuable electronics away from the window and store them in a safe place.
Also Read: Best Ways to Monsoon-Proof Your Home
Takeaways
Protection of your valuable electronic devices during lightning and thunderstorms is crucial as neglection of do’s and don’ts during lightning can result in expensive repairs and loss of data. Being informed about what to do and what should be avoided during lightning storms potentially ensures that your important electronic devices remain in top condition under adverse weather conditions. This comprehensive guide of do’s and don’ts during thunderstorms assures that electronic devices such as television, laptops, chargers, refrigerators, etc are safe and damage free. For quality electronics and accessories visit OLX as it has a wide range of electronic items available. Stay Informed, Stay Safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my surge protector?
Power surge protectors should be replaced every 3-5 years. It can be replaced earlier if you notice any sign of malfunction or damage.
What is a power surge protector?
A power surge protector is a device that is designed to protect your electronic devices from sudden power surges and voltage spikes.
Can I use my laptop during a thunderstorm?
Yes, you can use your laptop during a storm but only if it is running on battery and not plugged-in to an electrical outlet.
Can I use power strips instead of power surge protectors?
No, power strips do not offer any protection during power surge or spike.
What is a UPS, and do I need one?
A UPS provides backup power and surge protection, essential for sensitive electronics.
