On May 24, 1:04 pm, wrote:
I installed a whole house lightningprotectoron the breaker box
(across the mains), and never had another problem with
lightning. From what I recall, it cost me around $30 to $40, but
that was 1979 or 80. These days it would probably cost $100,
but well worth it, and easy to install for anyone that knows
wiring. It just goes into one of the knockouts on the box and
has 3 wires. One is ground, the other two go to the mains.

The protector is not across the mains. If so, then protector would
not provide effective protection. Why does it work? As jJim
McLaughlin noted, also important is the earth ground. Earth is the
protection. The protector with a short connection to earth simply
connects each AC electric wire to earth. It is not a connection
between mains. It is a connection between each AC main and earth.
Lightning earthed as it enters a building will not seek earth ground,
destructively via refrigerator, et al. Why is ceramic damaged? What
was the path to earth via that ceramic?

Minimally sufficient 'whole house' protector is still sold in Lowes
and Home Depot for less than $50. Better ones (longer life
expectancy) cost more. Effective protectors have names from
responsible manufacturers such as Leviton, Square D, Cutler Hammer,
Intermatic, Siemens, GE, etc. Each has that dedicated wire for a
'less than 10 foot' connection to earth. IOW building earthing must
be upgraded to meet and exceed post 1990 National Electrical Code
requirements.

Even if all receptacles are only two wire type - still the 'whole
house' protector provided effective protection for all appliances.
Protector costs about $1 per protected appliance. But earthing at the
breaker box must exceed post 1990 code.

If lightning is entering to damage a refrigerator, then how many
times before it eventually creates a house fire? What protects smoke
detectors? Just two more reasons why a properly earthed 'whole house'
protector is necessary. Things such as refrigerator, furnace smoke
detectors and bathroom GFCIs are necessary for human safety. What
protects them? A 'whole house' protector (properly earthed) is
essential for all homes.

BTW, this is only secondary protection. Also required is inspection
of the household primary surge protection 'system':
http://www.tvtower.com/grounding_and_bonding.html

Protection is defined by one essential 'system' component: earth
ground. Effective protector is only a connecting device to earth.
Such devices are available in Lowes, Home Depot, and electrical supply
houses. Especially not listed are Kmart, Sears, Walmart, Staples,
Circuit City, Radio Shack, and the grocery store. Effective
protectors are not seen there. Why are more responsible manufacturer
names not on protectors in that last retail list?