quiltsfor

I have all of my quilting machines on surge protectors -- good ones. I turn off my machines/irons etc. and then switch off the surge protectors as well. It keeps the current stopped at the surge protector. I questioned it a little bit, but have had power surges that have zapped the surge protectors, but it didn't travel beyond them. It was expensive (over 250.00) to replace the 5 expensive surge protectors, but so much cheaper than getting machines damaged. Never had a lightening strike, but our homeowners insurance has lightening strike protection coverage.

NZquilter

Thank you all for the advice! Wow! So much to think about, and not just for longarms! Insurance is a pain in the butt, costs a fortune, probably will never be needed, but when it is needed it's still a nightmare!
I'm not planning on quilting for others yet, but I haven't ruled it out entirely for the future. I do unplug all my machines after every use/ sewing session just to be safe. I've heard too many stories of surge protectors failing in storms. I guess one of my worst fears is getting hit with a monster size tornado, or a tree falling on the house. Silly fears I know... Especially if something like that was to happen, the last thing I would be considered about are sewing toys and stuff.
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mkc

Just switching off does not keep stray current/energy from coming in on the ground wire.

Peckish

I read of a woman who got mad at her insurance company and cancelled her insurance - BEFORE she had replacement insurance in place. You can see where this is going. She had a pipe break and no insurance to cover it.