How Do You Protect A Generator From An Electromagnetic Pulse?
An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is a sudden release of electromagnetic energy that can be caused by the atmospheric detonation of a nuclear weapon or by geomagnetic storms. Though rare, an EMP could destroy everything from electrical systems on a national level down to the personal electronics in an average home. Protecting a typical 15,000 watt home generator from an electromagnetic pulse is both feasible and relatively inexpensive. The most reliable method is enclosing the generator in a Faraday cage. According to Clay Wilson at the University of Maryland, a Faraday cage “…routes damaging electromagnetic fields away from highly sensitive electrical components.” Also used to guard against the more common threat of lightning strikes, a Faraday cage constructed from readily available materials can be a wise investment for the common homeowner. Dig a 6-foot-by-6-foot foundation 6 inches deep using the shovel, taking care to keep the bottom surface even. Check periodically by placing the b