The Importance of Expert Sources and Licensed Professionals
We’ve noticed a slight—sometimes not-so-slight—problem with surge protection searches using generative artificial intelligence (AI). The answers to some questions aren’t always right. In some cases, they’re misleading or missing crucial information, and in others, they’re incorrect. The bigger issue with this is the risk that comes with it; electronic devices, appliances, and other electrical systems may not be properly protected, or it could result in a true safety concern.
Here are a few examples of recent AI searches on surge protection, the answers provided, and the critical information that was missed or inaccurate.
The search: “What is another name for a lightning arrester?”
The AI answer: “Another name for a lightning arrester is a surge diverter or surge arrester.”
Where this went wrong: You might see the term “lightning arrester” used interchangeably with surge protector, surge diverter, surge suppressor, or surge arrester, but all of these are actually different from a lightning arrester. We see this confusion outside of AI, as well. Lightning arresters are primarily designed to discharge extreme, high-energy from direct lightning strikes. Whereas a surge protective device (SPD) shields against a range of external and internal transient overvoltage events. This can include indirect lightning strikes, but SPDs are not designed to protect equipment from direct lightning strikes.
The search: “What is better than a surge protector?”
The AI answer: “An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is better than a standard surge protector…”
Where this went wrong: We’ll categorize this answer as misleading. UPS systems do provide battery backup and point-of-use surge protection, but whether or not this is the “better” option depends. What’s the equipment that needs to be protected? If we’re talking about fire alarm systems, HVACs, or even home electrical panels, a UPS isn’t going to be the primary surge protector nor the one required by NEC code for fire alarms and home electrical panels.
The search: “Should I turn off my surge protector during a storm?”
The AI answer: “Yes, you should completely unplug your surge protector and connected electronics from the wall outlet before a storm arrives. Simply flipping the switch on your surge protector off is not enough…”
Where this went wrong: This is another answer that we would say is misleading or vague. With many Type 1 and Type 2 SPDs, you won’t simply be able to “turn it off” or “unplug” your surge protector. You might flip your breaker off if you’re at home or in a small office building, but you certainly won’t be unplugging these types of surge protectors. Moreover, for the average storm, SPDs are in place to protect electrical systems, electronics, and appliances—not from direct lightning strikes but from the various external surge events that often increase during severe weather.
We certainly understand that some users may ask follow up questions for specifications and sources in their searches, but we also know that many may not. Surge protection is already misunderstood in many fields, especially for end users, and it’s easy to take these answers at face value. In a 2026 Forbes article, Anthropic reported 91% of users don’t fact-check AI, based on 10,000 conversations analyzed.
Currently, generative AI simply cannot replace the field experts in surge protection and the ability to apply that expertise to user scenarios and situations. When it comes to shielding your electrical systems, electronics, and appliances, go to the source. Connect with the manufacturer, talk to an expert, or work with a licensed electrician to avoid confusion and be confident that the information is reliable.
In addition to contacting our team for support and questions, visit DITEK University for detailed surge protection answers and information.
