What Is a Lightning Arrester and How Does It Work?

If you’ve been considering ways to protect your home or business from power surges, then you might’ve heard the term lightning arrester tossed around. So, what exactly is a lightning arrester, and how does it work? Is it the same as a surge protector?

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we break these down in everyday terms, and talk about why this device deserves a spot on your electrical panel. If you'd rather consult a certified electrician directly, then call or message Mr. Electric to get in touch today!

Introducing the Lightning Arrester

Sometimes called a surge arrester, a lightning arrester is a protective electrical device that’s installed into your electrical system. Its primary job is to prevent high-voltage surges - like those caused by lightning strikes or power line issues - from damaging your electronics and appliances.

Contrary to the name, a lightning arrester doesn’t stop lightning in its tracks or “absorb” it. Lightning is still going to strike where it wants. What the arrester does is limit how much of that surge makes it into your electrical system.

How Does a Lightning Arrester Actually Work?

Imagine your home’s electrical system as a two-lane highway built for steady traffic. Your lights, fridge, and devices are cruising along at normal speed when, suddenly, a tractor-trailer comes barreling down that road at 200 mph... that’s what a lightning-induced surge looks like to your wiring.

A lightning arrester acts like a smart exit ramp. When it detects a sudden spike in voltage, it diverts that surplus energy away and sends it safely into the ground (literally). Then it steps back and lets normal operations continue once things stabilize.

It’s not a one-time-use device either. A quality arrester - if installed correctly - can repeat this process multiple times. It's a long-term line of defense that offers a priceless peace of mind.

What’s the Difference Between a Lightning Arrester and a Surge Protector?

Here’s where it gets a little nuanced. In most residential and commercial contexts, surge protectors and lightning arresters are used interchangeably. Technically, lightning arresters are a type of surge protection.

Lightning arresters are specifically geared toward external surges - like those caused by lightning strikes or transformer malfunctions. A surge protector, however, also protects against internal surges caused by overloaded circuits or appliance cycling.

That’s why a professional surge protector installation often includes a whole-house system that covers both bases. You can (and should) still use point-of-use protectors at outlets for your computer or entertainment center... but nothing beats panel-level protection for major events like lightning strikes.

Why You Shouldn’t DIY This One

Now that you know how it works, you might be tempted to grab a lightning arrester from a hardware store and get to work. Not so fast.

Installing a surge arrester isn’t just a matter of plugging something in. These devices are wired directly into your home or business’s electrical panel. This means we're dealing with live circuits, grounding systems, and local code compliance. One misstep could mean inefficiency, shocks, or even electrocution.

Plus, why risk it all when Mr. Electric offers upfront price quotes. We are an established business with standard procedures, regular training for our uniformed and certified electricians, and a mission to provide reliable, quality, and accessible service.

Contact Mr. Electric for Anything Electric

Whether you're dealing with an emergency and need urgent electrical repair service in Salt Lake or want to plan an extensive electrical project at your home or business, the professionals at Mr. Electric are ready, willing, and able to help. Call or message Mr. Electric today to get in touch with a member of our team.