How to Protect Your Electrical System During Severe Storms
If you’ve lived in Michigan for any length of time, you know our storms don’t mess around. From heavy spring rains and summer lightning to icy winter winds that knock out power lines like dominoes, severe weather is just part of life here.
And while you can’t stop a storm from rolling in, you can protect your home’s electrical system before, during, and after one hits. Here’s how to stay ahead of the damage and avoid costly surprises:
1. Install a Whole-Home Surge Protector
We’ll start with one of the most important steps: surge protection.
When lightning strikes near your home—or the power grid becomes unstable during a storm—it can send a dangerous spike of electricity through your wiring. This surge can fry anything from TVs and computers to your HVAC system or refrigerator.
A whole-home surge protector is installed at your electrical panel and acts like a barrier. It stops those voltage spikes before they reach your appliances. If you don’t have one yet, especially in storm-prone areas like Michigan, it’s a smart investment.
2. Use Unplugging as a Backup Plan
Even with surge protection, it’s still a good idea to unplug sensitive electronics before a severe storm. This includes:
Computers and gaming systems
Televisions
Routers/modems
Kitchen appliances like coffee makers and air fryers
If you know a big storm is on the way, a few minutes of unplugging can save you from expensive replacements.
3. Consider a Backup Generator
Michigan storms are known for causing extended outages—especially during snow and ice events when the grid is under serious stress.
Having a backup generator gives you power when the rest of the block is dark. It keeps your fridge running, your sump pump working, and your home comfortable during blackouts.
If you’re not sure whether a portable or whole-house generator is best for your home, we can help walk you through your options.
4. Check Your Grounding System
Your home’s grounding system is what safely directs excess electrical energy (like a lightning strike) into the earth. But if it’s outdated, damaged, or wasn’t installed properly in the first place, it might not do its job.
Before storm season ramps up, have a licensed electrician inspect your grounding and bonding system to make sure it’s up to code and ready to protect you.
5. Secure Outdoor Electrical Equipment
Storms in Michigan can bring strong winds and heavy rain—both of which spell trouble for anything left outside. Make sure:
Outdoor outlets are covered with weatherproof boxes
Extension cords are disconnected and stored
Landscape lighting and holiday lights are secured or brought in
Wet or exposed electrical equipment can lead to shorts, shocks, or fires—so don’t leave it to chance.
6. Get an Electrical Safety Inspection
Not sure if your system is storm-ready? A licensed electrician can give your home a full safety check—inspecting your panel, wiring, grounding, and surge protection.
Inspections are especially important if:
Your home is older
You’ve added major appliances recently
You’ve experienced frequent outages or tripped breakers
An inspection gives you peace of mind and a clear plan to stay protected, no matter what Michigan weather throws your way.
Contact Metro Electric in Southeast Michigan – We’ll Help Protect Your Electrical System During Severe Storms
Severe storms are part of life here in Michigan—but power loss, damage, and costly repairs don’t have to be. A few preventative steps now can make all the difference when the next thunderstorm, blizzard, or windstorm shows up on your doorstep.
If you’re not sure where to start, give us a call. Our team can inspect your system, recommend the right protection, and make sure your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.