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Published: June 17, 2009
Q. Recently parts of the Buena Vista neighborhood experienced a power outage. Power was lost and restored several times. Surge protectors saved electronic equipment and appliances the first time, but once the protectors themselves were fried, subsequent surges damaged or destroyed appliances and electronics in several homes and one church. In our home alone, we lost an HVAC unit, a dishwasher, a microwave oven, a TV and a surge protector. Does Duke Energy bear any responsibility to us and the dozen or so neighbors who experienced similar issues? -- E.O.
A. Jimmy Flythe, a spokesperson for Duke Energy Carolinas, says that the
company goes to great lengths to design and maintain its electrical-distribution system to be as safe and reliable as it can be.
However, acts of nature such as wind, ice, lightning, and even wildlife, can cause problems. Plugging sensitive electronic equipment into surge protectors can reduce the potential for damage, or homeowners can install whole-house surge protection.
Flythe says that customers who believe that Duke Energy is responsible for their damaged equipment can file a claim by contacting Duke Energy at 800-777-9898.
The company will honor claims only in cases in which it is at fault and caused the damage. It does not honor claims that are the results of acts of nature.
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