Lightning Strikes Can Damage Electrical Wiring
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We had a lightning strike our tree in our front yard. A circuit breaker tripped in the breaker box. It would not reset… © By: Dave Rongey |
Lightning Strikes Can Damage Electrical Wiring
Background: Al, a Homeowner from St. Louis, MO
Question: We had a lightning strike our tree in our front yard. A circuit breaker (not GFI) tripped in the breaker box (15A). It would not reset. I replaced it with a new 15A breaker and it tripped as soon as I set it. I pulled the wires from the electrical panel (black, white and ground) and across the black/white wires I have ~20 ohms. Need your help! How do I troubleshoot this problem?
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Al. Lighting strikes can cause damage to wiring which will require identification and repairs or replacement wiring.
Electrical Charged Sink After Lightning Strike
Fran asks:
We have charged sinks after lightning strike. What should we do?
Additional Comments: Amazing resource.
Dave’s Reply:
Fran,
From what you have described, if you are experiencing electrical problems after a lightning strike then I highly advise you to consider contacting a qualified electrician as soon as possible.
The home electrical system may have been damaged and in need of repairs.
If you are experiencing electrical shocks, then the electrical service should be turned off if at all possible, and stay away from all grounded areas of the home such as sinks, drains, bathtubs, showers, and water facets.
Wear well insulated shoes with rubber soles as an added measure of protection.
Follow Up: Damaged Electrical Ground System
Thank you!
Again, I’m grateful to find your website and will recommend others to you. Thank you for actually answering as well!
The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:
Electrical Junction Boxes
Electrical Code for How Many Wires in Junction Boxes
Circuit Breakers
House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
Circuit Wiring
Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
Lighting For The Home
Lighting Electrical Codes
Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
For more information about Home Wiring
Home Wiring Diagrams
This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical
Make sure not to miss these Resources for: More about Outlets
Wiring Outlets
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