Cost & Warranty
Florida Storms Killed My Appliance — What to Do Next
Lightning and brownouts take out more Tampa Bay appliances than any other cause. Here's what to check, what to claim, and how to prevent it next storm.
First: don't assume it's dead
Many post-storm 'failures' are tripped GFCIs, blown thermal fuses, or popped half-breakers. Reset the breaker, check any GFCI on the same circuit, and try the appliance once more before you book a repair.
What surge damage actually looks like
Burned smell from the back of the appliance, scorched circuit boards visible through the rear panel, or a fridge/washer that's totally dead with no panel lights. These are surge — and they're often documentable for your homeowner's claim.
Homeowner's insurance claims
Most Florida policies cover surge damage with a deductible. Ask for a written diagnostic report — we provide one on every storm call so you have documentation for the claim.
Prevent it next time
A whole-home surge protector at the panel ($300–$500 installed by an electrician) plus dedicated point-of-use protectors on fridges and washers is far cheaper than replacing a $1,200 control board.
FAQ
Will a manufacturer warranty cover surge damage?+
Almost never. Surge is explicitly excluded by most manufacturer warranties. That's why insurance documentation matters.