I keep my sewing machines and my embroidery machine unplugged when not in use, and if a lightning storm occurs and I am sewing or embroidering, I stop immediately and unplug everything. I also use a very good surge protector for every machine. I spent a lot of time researching and comparing machines before I purchased, and I don't want to have to replace them any time soon, there's always another day to sew, and my machines are safe.