Power surge damage?

Question

On Tuesday, I noticed that my modem didn't work. It would turn on and receive the DSL signal, but the ethernet line would not work. Then yesterday, I noticed my DVD player won't turn on. It shows the clock, but when I try to turn it on, it gives me an "AU" signal and shuts off. So, while trying to watch another TV, the DVR box won't turn on. Again, its getting power and appears to be active, but won't turn on to watch TV. Finally, this morning while making breakfast, my toasteroven won't work. The timer ticks, but the coils don't heat up.

So, I'm thinking the last few days of really bad storms and lightning have fried my house? Is there anyway of knowing for sure?

Answer 1

Check your wall outlet if you have enough voltage to power up the equipment. You may just experiencing low power supply. Get a voltmeter. 110V in North Am. The rest 220~240.

Answer 2

There is probably no way to know for sure at this point, but you probably did.  Lightning damage causes very strange and intermittent problems with electronics.  It very rarely just takes something out completely.

My best advice is to have everything electronic on a good surge protector, including cable TV or Sat coming into your house.  It is cheap insurance.