surge protectors Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Can lightning damage something that’s turned off?

Posted on March 1, 2026

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Question from Karen: I have a question about surge protection after reading this article of yours.

If there’s a lightning strike and your TV and computer gear are not on at the time, will the strike still damage the equipment?

I have heard that you should unplug your electronic things during an electrical storm but I’ve also heard that if something is turned off lightning won’t hurt it even if it’s plugged in. [Read more…]

4 tips for protecting your computer from lightning strikes

Posted on July 6, 2023

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Well, summer is officially here, and that means the long, hot days to come will be spawning plenty of electrical storms.

There’s really nothing you can do to keep the coming storms at bay, but there are several things you can do that would greatly reduce the risk of a lightning strike damaging your expensive computer equipment.

Here are a few tips for protecting your computer from lightning strikes: [Read more…]