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Summer storms can move through quickly, but their impact can last long after the skies clear. For homeowners, severe weather is a reminder to look beyond the obvious outdoor damage and consider how well the systems in and around your home are prepared. Taking preventive measures now before the next summer storm can help prevent damage and unexpected expenses.
Why Preventative Measures Are Essential
Storm damage isn’t always as obvious as a downed tree or a flooded basement. Lightning and high winds can send sudden surges through power lines, while heavy rain can allow moisture into outlets, panels and wiring, creating problems that may not show up until days or weeks later. According to the Insurance Information Institute, U.S. insurers paid $1.04 billion in lightning-related homeowners insurance claims in 2024, with the average claim costing more than $18,000. That’s why storm prep is about more than keeping the lights on—it’s about protecting the systems behind your walls, the appliances you rely on every day, and your family’s safety.
How to protect your home this summer
Schedule a routine inspection
Pre-storm electrical inspections are essential for your home’s safety. They can prevent fires, power loss, home damage, and shocks before a storm hits. An inspector should check for power surges or sudden increases in electrical current; loose outlets and wires, which can cause fires; ground-fault circuit interrupters, or devices that shut off power when they detect a fault; and other electrical vulnerabilities that may damage your home.
Install whole-home surge protection
Whole-home surge protection is installed on your home’s main electrical panel to protect all electronics and devices from destructive power spikes. Excess voltage from lightning, power outages and restorations, appliance cycling, or utility grid switching is redirected to ground before it can damage appliances and electronics.
Unplug all devices
Lightning strikes can cause electrical surges that travel through power lines and damage devices, making it essential to unplug them before a storm hits.
Ensure that your grounding rod is functioning properly
According to the National Electric Code (NEC) and the Washington Electrical Transmission Authority (WETA), virtually all DMV area homes are required to have a grounding rod or an alternative grounding electrode system. A grounding rod is a form of an electrical conductor that safely diverts electric dangers away from your home and into the ground, protecting appliances and preventing fires. Over time, moisture, shifting soil, and temperature changes can damage the metal and loosen connections, increasing the risk of electrical fires, electric shock, and damage. During an electrical inspection, a licensed electrician can confirm that that your grounding system is secure, connected properly, and ready to help protect your home before severe weather hits.
Post-storm electrical checklist
Don’t assume that your electrical system as soon as the storm has passed. Take the time to check for anything unusual, looking out for warning signs like flickering or dimming lights, broken outlets, burning smells, buzzing sounds from panels or outlets, moisture near electrical equipment, or partial power loss. These could signal hidden damage that needs professional attention.
After a storm, inspect the following areas to help ensure your home remains safe:
- Major appliances such as HVAC System, refrigerator, water heater, washer and dryer
- Internet and phone lines
- Power strips and surge protectors
When it comes to your home and electrical system, a little preparation can go a long way. Taking preventative steps before severe weather hits can reduce the risk of storm-related damage, costly repairs, and safety hazards—while giving you greater peace of mind when the next summer storm rolls in.
To help protect your home before the next summer storm, the experts at F.H. Furr can help. Click here to learn more or schedule electrical service today.
Published Date : 2026-08-03 09:00:00
Source : www.nbcwashington.com
