Installations
Lightning protection installation is a process that aims to protect the building being installed from lightning strikes. There are many factors that we need to take into consideration when installing lightning rod systems and surge protection for buildings. This blog post will explain the types of lighting protection systems, benefits and processes for different lightning rod system installations.
The types of systems you can install and their benefits
Lightning protection systems
These are systems that are installed to protect the building from lightning strikes. Installing a lightning rod with a triggering system will ensure there is no damage caused by the strike and there is less wear on the equipment due to induced currents.
Surge protection systems
Surge protection works as an insurance policy for your electrical devices against power surges, spikes or dips in voltage levels during storms or other situations where voltage can rise rapidly, causing extensive damage to your electronics.
ESE systems
The ESE systems are the newest systems on the market, with a higher level of protection from lightning strikes. They work by grounding the lightning strike to the earth, preventing damage to your property.
Types of lightning protection systems
The lightning rod (simple rod or with a triggering system)
This is an effective lightning protection system, with the rod intercepting lightning and grounding it to the earth.
The lightning rod with taut wires
This is a type of metal ladder that has been created for electricity to flow down from the air and into the ground wire without the risk of a current short circuit. It is a cheaper option than other systems on this page, but not as reliable or effective against lightning strikes.
The lightning conductor with a meshed cage (Faraday cage)
This is a type of system that will offer protection against lightning strikes. This is a metal cage with wires and an earth wire to complete the circuit, protecting against all types of electric surges in homes.
Surge protection system Types
Type 1 SPD
These are compact devices used by residences, offices, schools, etc., which protect only against power surges coming through your outlets (the device does not provide any protection if you have an electrical problem). With these types of SPDs, you will be protected against surges occurring at up to 600 volts per phase.
Type 2 SPD
The type 2 SPD is a more powerful model that is used in industrial plants, hospitals, etc. It provides protection against power surges and also lightning strikes (providing up to 1500 volts per phase of protection).
Type 3 SPD
The type 3 SPD is a high-end device that is used for protection against lightning strikes. It also protects from power surges (up to 3000 volts per phase).
The process we use for installing different systems
Lightning protection systems
For the lightning protection systems, we first start by installing the lightning rods. Once the installation of the rod is complete, we connect it to a surge protection device or ESE system.
Surge Protection Systems
We install a Type-I surge protector during construction before any wiring has been done and then reconnect it after all other work has been completed on that circuit (if required).
ESE systems
An electric service equipment is installed in an outbuilding such as a detached garage, workshop, barn, etc.-away from human contact but close enough for reliable connection with the power supply cable.