Lightning Storms

[Maui]

Had a big storm roll through today and I was wondering what people do concerning storms. Unplugging makes sense of course, but if you weren’t anticipating or it comes on suddenly what can be done to mitigate issues.

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[Mach-Lee]

You can stop charging with the app to minimize risk. The voltage is disconnected by the EVSE when charging is paused so a surge shouldn't get to the car even if it's plugged in unless you have a huge ground surge. You should also install a whole-house surge protector.

The main thing is avoid actively charging during an intense thunderstorm.

 

[hybrid2bev]

I know in my head that Mach-Lee is right. But unplugging just feels right.

 

[BudC]

My Chevy Volt was plugged in when our house was struck by lightning. I don't know what stage of the charging processs it was in, but it blew out my ClipperCreek wall charger and wiped out the Volt. It took Chevy almost 6 months to sequentially replace everything in the car related to the battery system (they tested things as they replaced them, and if it didn't work they moved on to the next module).

I always unplug if there's a forecast of thunderstorms...I don't want to go through THAT again ?

 

[Maui]

i have not been keeping mine plugged in unless I am actively charging. Is there a benefit to keeping it charged in if not charging?

 

[Maquis]

The owners manual states not to use the Mobile Charger during storms. It’s odd that it seemingly doesn’t apply to charging in general. The risks are the same.

 

[Maquis]

i have not been keeping mine plugged in unless I am actively charging. Is there a benefit to keeping it charged in if not charging?

Only of you have a schedule or a departure time set.

 

[Bruboy]

Had a big storm roll through today and I was wondering what people do concerning storms. Unplugging makes sense of course, but if you weren’t anticipating or it comes on suddenly what can be done to mitigate issues.

I was at work and had a leg blow, lots of noise, but I unhooked it and all was okay. Scared the snot out of me at the time.

 

[AtomicInternet]

My Chevy Volt was plugged in when our house was struck by lightning. I don't know what stage of the charging processs it was in, but it blew out my ClipperCreek wall charger and wiped out the Volt. It took Chevy almost 6 months to sequentially replace everything in the car related to the battery system (they tested things as they replaced them, and if it didn't work they moved on to the next module).

I always unplug if there's a forecast of thunderstorms...I don't want to go through THAT again ?

This is good info.
In this case it's just one instance, but for lightning strikes one example is all I need lol.

Anyone ever use these?
https://www.amazon.com/Marsflex-Protector-Protection-Waterproof-Motorboat/dp/B0CY5GJ73S

 

[Flint302]

Lightning once blew my Juicebox. Costco replaced it immediately--so now I always unplug with lightning around. Problem is, Enel X just blew up my Juicebox with no lightning around.

 

[Maui]

This is good info.
In this case it's just one instance, but for lightning strikes one example is all I need lol.

Anyone ever use these?
https://www.amazon.com/Marsflex-Protector-Protection-Waterproof-Motorboat/dp/B0CY5GJ73S

That would totally be worth the peace of mind.

 

[Maui]

More Joules more good?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8F1W6R...tive&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWwy&th=1

 

[Deleted member 19354]

I know in my head that Mach-Lee is right. But unplugging just feels right.

He is a great resource for sure

 

[grein002]

I have this connected to my main panel:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013WINMK6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

Was $182 when I bought it in 2016. Price has gone up just a bit...

EDIT: looks like this may have replaced it in their lineup:

https://www.amazon.com/SIEMENS-BOLT...65400843433456471-B0BN6N3CZN-&hvexpln=73&th=1

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