Protecting Your Electrical System
Texas storms don’t play. One minute it’s sunny, next minute you’ve got tumultuous rain, lightning strikes, and the power’s out. Wind, water, blown transformers—your electrical system takes the hit. Here’s how to prep without overthinking it:
1. Charge the Essentials — Now, Not Later
Storm’s not here yet? Good. Plug in your phone, backup chargers, power banks, tablets…If you want it to work later, plug it in now! Make sure to unplug your electronics and countertop appliances when lightning starts.
* Use power-saving mode on your phone just in case.
* Keep battery-powered flashlights in your most-used rooms.
* Stock fresh batteries in a known, dry place.
2. Unplug What You Don’t Need
Lightning surges can fry your electronics in seconds. If it doesn’t need to be running, unplug it.
* Focus on TVs, computers, gaming consoles, routers, and countertop appliances.
* Leave essentials like the fridge plugged in.
* Don’t wait for the flicker—do it before the storm rolls in.
3. Surge Protect Like You Mean It
Not all power strips are surge protectors. Check your gear.
* Look for the UL 1449 rating and a joule rating of at least 800.
* Move critical devices (routers, modems, entertainment setups, office equipment) to real surge protectors—not $5 strips from the junk drawer.
* If your surge protector’s older than five years or has taken a hit before, replace it!
At Dunman Electric, we install whole-house surge protectors, so if you don’t want to worry about this step in the future, give us a call! (512)280-8847
4. Know Your Breaker Panel
Power cuts and lightning strikes can trip breakers. You need to know how to reset them safely. We have a guide to resetting your breakers here!
* Never touch the panel with wet hands or while standing in water.
* Keep a flashlight or battery lantern near the breaker at all times.
* Reset breakers one at a time.
* If one keeps tripping after reset, something’s wrong. Call a licensed electrician.
5. Using a Generator? Know the Rules.
If you’re running a generator, follow safety protocol.
* Set it up outside— never in a garage or near vents.
* Plug devices directly into the generator unless you have a transfer switch installed.
* Let it cool fully before refueling. Hot engine +gas = explosion risk.
6. After the Storm: Walk the House
Once the storm has passed and lightning has not struck within 10 miles of your home for 30 minutes, do a walkthrough.
* Sniff for weird smells.
* Check for melted outlets, scorch marks, or anything that looks off.
* Check your breaker panel again.
* If something doesn’t look or smell right, or breakers keep tripping, stop and call a licensed electrician ASAP.
You don’t have to be an expert. Just take simple steps, in the right order, before the storm hits. Taking these steps will save you time, money, and a potential electrical fire.
Learn more about our Power & Protect Promo bundle to protect your home’s electrical system and gain peace of mind today!