Lightning arrester vs surge arrester: which one do you need for better electrical protection

Lightning can damage a building and the electrical equipment inside it. These risks need different types of protection.

An ESE lightning arrester is part of an external lightning protection system. A surge arrester, or SPD, protects electrical circuits and connected equipment from transient overvoltage.

 

Some buildings may need both.

Feature	ESE lightning arrester	Surge arrester / SPD
Main purpose	Protects the structure from direct lightning strikes	Protects electrical circuits and connected equipment from transient overvoltage
Installation	Outside the building	Inside the electrical distribution system
Protection path	Down conductor and earthing system	Diverts surge current through the SPD to the earthing system
Typical location	Roof, mast or other suitable high point	Main or sub-distribution boards
Protects	Building and structure	Electrical equipment and downstream circuits
Main threats	Direct lightning strikes	Lightning-induced and switching surges
Key selection factors	Protection level, installation height, site layout and earthing	System voltage, Uc, Up, In, Imax and system configuration
Can it replace the other?	No	No

Lightning arrester vs surge arrester: what is the difference?

An ESE lightning arrester is installed as part of an external lightning protection system. It connects to down conductors and an earthing system, providing a path for lightning current.

 

A surge arrester or SPD is installed in the electrical system. It limits transient overvoltage and diverts surge current to help protect connected equipment.

What does a lightning arrester protect?

An ESE lightning arrester protects a structure as part of an external lightning protection system. The system also includes the mast, down conductors, bonding and earthing.

Protection depends on the building, installation height, protection level and overall system design.

 

When comparing ESE products, ask the lightning arrester manufacturer for product specifications, test documents and installation requirements. Also check the ESE lightning arrester price against the complete system cost.

What does a surge arrester protect?

A surge arrester protects electrical circuits and connected equipment from transient overvoltage.

 

Lightning and switching operations can create these voltage spikes. A surge protection device helps limit the voltage reaching downstream equipment.

Axis offers Type 2 SPDs for distribution-level protection.

Where are they installed?

An ESE lightning arrester is installed outside the building, normally at a suitable high point. Its location and protection coverage depend on the site design.

 

A surge arrester is installed inside the electrical distribution system, usually at a main or sub-distribution board.

 

SPD selection depends on factors such as system voltage, phase arrangement, earthing and required protection level.

 

A lightning arrester manufacturer should provide the required installation information.

Can one replace the other?

No. They have different functions.

 

An external lightning protection system provides a path for a direct lightning strike. A surge arrester protects electrical circuits from transient overvoltage.

 

Depending on the building and electrical installation, you may need both.

When do you need both?

Some facilities need both types of protection.

 

The ESE lightning arrester forms part of the external lightning protection system. The SPD protects electrical circuits and connected equipment from transient overvoltage.

 

This can be important for facilities with sensitive equipment, large electrical systems or higher lightning exposure.

 

Determine the required protection based on the site's risk, electrical system and applicable design requirements.

What should you check before choosing?

If your main concern is	Consider
Direct lightning strike to the building	ESE lightning arrester and external lightning protection system
Surge entering through electrical circuits	Surge protection device
Switching surges from motors and equipment	Surge protection device
Protecting sensitive electronic equipment	Appropriate SPD arrangement
Protecting a large facility from direct lightning	Complete external lightning protection system
Protecting both the structure and electrical equipment	External lightning protection + SPDs

For an ESE lightning arrester, check the protection level, installation height, down conductors, earthing and applicable standards.

 

For an SPD, check system voltage, phase arrangement, Uc, Up, In, Imax and earthing requirements.

 

Do not compare the ESE lightning arrester price with the price of an SPD as though they are competing products. They serve different purposes.

 

Axis provides ESE lightning arresters, down conductors, earthing systems and surge protection devices.

 

If you are comparing the ESE lightning arrester price, consider the complete protection system, including installation and other required components.

 

Talk to the Axis team about your structure, electrical system and installation conditions before finalising the specification.

FAQs

Can surge protection stop a direct lightning strike?

No. Direct strikes require an external lightning protection system.

Where is a Type 2 surge arrester installed?

A Type 2 surge arrester is commonly installed at the distribution level, such as a main or sub-distribution board.

What should I check before choosing an arrester?

Check the product specification, protection arrangement, installation requirements and testing information.

What is the difference between an ESE lightning arrester and a surge arrester?

An ESE lightning arrester forms part of an external lightning protection system for the structure. A surge arrester, or SPD, protects electrical circuits and connected equipment from transient overvoltage.

Can a building have both a lightning arrester and surge protection?

Yes. They serve different functions. The lightning protection system addresses direct lightning strikes, while SPDs protect electrical circuits and equipment from transient overvoltage.

Does ESE lightning arrester price include the complete protection system?

Not necessarily. The ESE lightning arrester price may cover only the arrester. The total project cost can also include the mast, down conductors, earthing, bonding and installation.

How do I choose a lightning arrester manufacturer?

Look for a lightning arrester manufacturer that provides product specifications, test and certification documents, installation guidance and technical support.