Why Gates and Cameras Fail After Storms
When storms move through an area, the damage they cause may extend beyond fallen trees and power outages. Security gates, surveillance cameras, and access control systems are particularly vulnerable to electrical surges caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning strikes, the resulting surge energy can travel a significant distance through power lines, ethernet cables, and low-voltage wiring, causing costly damage to sensitive electronic equipment.
One of the primary reasons lightning damage to security gates occurs is the presence of long wire runs. Gate operators, keypads, card readers, and intercom systems are often located hundreds of feet from the main building. These cables can act like antennas during a storm, collecting surge energy and delivering it directly to control boards and communication devices. Security camera systems face similar risks, especially when cameras are installed outdoors and connected through long network cable runs.
Grounding differences can also contribute to equipment failures after severe weather. Large properties frequently have multiple structures, gates, and electrical systems that are connected. During a lightning event, voltage differences between these locations can force surge energy through sensitive electronics, damaging access control equipment, cameras, network switches, and gate controllers. In many cases, the damage is not immediately visible, leading to intermittent failures or complete system outages days after the storm has passed.
The best way to protect access control systems and outdoor security equipment is through a layered surge protection strategy. Gate electronics surge protection devices like the TPD SLP and LT series installed at the gate cabinet and the TPX series at the power panel and/or disconnect can help absorb damaging voltage spikes before they reach critical components. Camera system and network communication surge protection such as the CAT6-POE and TPD-CAT6 should be installed to reduce the risk of equipment failure. Proper grounding and bonding are equally important, helping to minimize dangerous voltage differences throughout the property. Many property owners also benefit from whole-building surge protection, which is the best approach for defense against incoming electrical surges.
If you need help protecting security systems and gates from storms during this summer season, contact us at info@tpdsurge.com! We are always happy to help.
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