When you get direct (or nearby) hit nothing will help, but I would still use protection for smaller events and of course unplugging. I installed in Siemens style panel two 65kA Siemens "BoltShield" QSPD2A065P protectors ($126 each st Amazon). I had two free positions on each side, so the only labor involved was plugging them in and connecting ground wire. Together they can handle up to 130kA, while the strongest Siemens protector FS140 can handle 140kA (and is likely >$400). Be sure to switch main breaker off or call electrician (it shouldn't be expensive). You need two free spaces (2-pole) and Siemens style pane. In ideal case everything should be below them - further from the entrance, because as 65kA ratings suggest clamping currents are extremely high causing huge voltage drops even on short piece of the bus bar. In my opinion it is better way than FS140 style (attached with wires), since there will be huge voltage drops on these wire during clamping. Protectors have high clamping voltage to start with and adding few tens of volts will make it worse. Still pulse of pretty high voltage will get on wiring, but it is extremely short and home wiring inductance should reduce it. In addition I plugged my system into Furman Elite 20PFI power conditioner with tight non-sacrificial over/undervoltage protection. Sometimes it activates its own circuit breaker to switch it back on a moment later. It is hard to tell if it was small under or overvoltage.
Whole House Surge Protection…recommendations!
I am considering a surge protection solution for the whole house in my main breaker box. I also have two dedicated 15A lines for my audio room. In a recent discussion @maxwave recommended a Siemens whole house protection device. Based on Siemens recommendation (where I live), Siemens FS140 model fits the bill.
The other product comes to mind is Environmental Potentials EP-2050 at twice the cost. Is there another product I should consider before hiring an electrician?
Thank you!
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My brother, who lives a few miles away from me is still in the process of repairing/replacing appliances in his house from lightning a month ago, and he has "whole house" protection installed in his 200 amp panel. The power company, Gulf Power, had to replace a large section of his service entrance. LOL.... He needs to replace the power company |
I just installed my first one today. I have two 200 amp panels so I am fitting one to each panel. It is very easy to install and I highly recommend this unit a small world cup |
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