Lightning (and garage door opener circuit board) Season
**Crash… boom… crack… rumble**
Sound familiar? It is spring in Minnesota. Or as we call it here at All Seasons Garage Door Company, circuit board season. This is the time of year for lightning strikes and the rumble of thunder. Garage door openers are sensitive to power surges and lightning strikes.
If your opener stops working after a thunderstorm, it is likely that you have had one or both, power surge or lightning strike in your area. It does not have to be a direct hit to burn out the circuit board. It can hit in the middle of the street or down the block. Lightning can travel a very long way and can affect a multitude of electronic items.
After a storm if you find your GFI button is popped, you should check all electronics to see if they are working. Lightning can affect your microwave, stove, refrigerator, furnace, air conditioner, telephone, televisions, computer, freezer, washer, dryer, water softener, sprinkler system, security system as well as any other electronics in your home.
How To Prevent House/Garage Lightning Damage
Surge suppressors should be installed on each of these to help prevent damage. If the damage is throughout the house, insurance may help with some of the cost, depending on your deductible. Sometimes the lightning is selective about what it does, Sometimes it will blow out the circuit board or the photo eyes, or sometimes both. Often it will pick and choose among your appliances and electronics what to damage. It is a tricky thing!
Contact Our Garage Door Opener Installation Pros
So sit back and enjoy the light show, the spectacular rainbows and the pitter patter of rainfall. Just keep away from the windows and enjoy another season of change.
If you’re needing assistance with a new garage door or garage door opener, contact our pros today and we’ll find the best solution for your specific need.