Introduction

Upgrading your Lightning Arrester System in Bangladesh is essential to keep up with modern safety standards and protect your home or business. Companies like RKW GROUP provide professional upgradation services, ensuring that older systems are reliable, compliant, and fully capable of handling Bangladesh’s frequent lightning storms.

 

 

1. Why Upgrade Your Lightning Arrester System

Many buildings in Bangladesh still rely on outdated lightning protection systems installed decades ago. Over time:

  • Conductors may corrode

  • Earthing resistance may increase

  • Surge protection devices may become outdated

  • New building additions can create vulnerabilities

Upgrading ensures safety, compliance with modern codes, and enhanced protection against lightning.

 

 

2. Signs Your System Needs an Upgrade

Some clear warning signs include:

  • Frequent tripping of electrical circuits during storms

  • Visible rust on lightning rods and conductors

  • Electrical surges damaging appliances

  • Roof extensions not covered by existing rods

  • Old SPDs that don’t match current electrical loads

If you notice these issues, it’s time to consider an upgradation.

 

 

3. Understanding the Basics Before Upgradation

Before upgrading, it’s important to know what a Lightning Arrester System in Bangladesh includes:

  • Air Terminals (Lightning Rods): Collects lightning at high points

  • Down Conductors: Carries current safely to the ground

  • Earthing System: Dissipates electricity into the soil

  • Surge Protection Devices (SPD): Protects indoor electronics

  • Bonding and Connectors: Prevent side flashes

Each component may require an update to meet current safety standards.

 

 

4. Modern Safety Standards for Lightning Protection

Bangladesh follows international and national standards for lightning protection:

  • IEC 62305: Global lightning protection standards

  • BNBC: Bangladesh National Building Code

  • NFPA 780: Fire and lightning protection code

Older systems may not comply with these standards, making upgradation necessary for safety and insurance compliance.

 

 

5. Steps to Upgrade Your Lightning Arrester System

Step 1: System Inspection

A professional inspection identifies:

  • Corroded rods or conductors

  • Poor earthing

  • Outdated SPDs

  • Vulnerable roof extensions

  • Non-bonded metal structures

Step 2: Earthing System Enhancement

Earthing is the backbone of lightning safety. Upgrades may include:

  • Adding new earthing pits

  • Using chemical earthing for dry soils

  • Replacing corroded rods

  • Checking resistance (<1–2 ohms for homes)

Step 3: Replace Old Lightning Rods

Corroded or outdated rods should be replaced with:

  • High-quality GI or copper rods

  • Modern ESE (Early Streamer Emission) rods for larger buildings

Step 4: Update Down Conductors

Conductors must:

  • Be thick enough for current flow

  • Avoid sharp bends

  • Have proper bonding to metal structures

Step 5: Surge Protection Devices (SPD) Replacement

Modern SPDs protect:

  • Air conditioners, fridges, TVs, routers

  • Inverters and solar controllers

  • Computers and sensitive equipment

Upgraded SPDs handle higher surge capacities and faster response times.

Step 6: Bonding and Grounding

All metallic structures—water tanks, railings, solar panels—must be bonded to prevent side flashes.

Step 7: System Testing

After installation:

  • Measure earth resistance

  • Test continuity of down conductors

  • Check SPDs

  • Document compliance with safety standards

RKW GROUP provides certified testing and reporting.

 

 

6. Common Upgradation Options in Bangladesh

a. Traditional Rod System Upgrade

Replace corroded rods, add extra rods for roof extensions, and ensure proper earthing.

b. ESE Lightning Arrester Upgrade

Install ESE rods for high-risk areas or large roofs, increasing coverage radius.

c. Mesh Protection System

For homes with complex roof structures, a mesh conductor network distributes lightning safely across the roof.

d. Solar-Integrated Protection

Add SPD and bonding around solar panels to prevent damage during storms.

 

 

7. Cost Factors for Upgrading

Costs depend on:

  • Type of arrester (traditional, ESE, mesh)

  • Number of rods and down conductors

  • Number of earthing pits

  • Size of the building

  • Surge protection requirements

Upgrades can range from Tk 20,000 to Tk 150,000, depending on complexity. Investing in safety now prevents costly damage later.

 

 

8. Maintenance After Upgradation

Even a modern system requires regular checks:

  • Annual inspection of rods, conductors, and earthing

  • Measuring earth resistance every 6–12 months

  • Replacing worn SPDs

  • Ensuring bonding connections remain intact

Proper maintenance ensures your upgraded Lightning Arrester System in Bangladesh continues to perform reliably.

 

 

9. Mistakes to Avoid During Upgradation

  • Skipping professional assessment

  • Using low-quality rods or conductors

  • Ignoring roof extensions or added floors

  • Failing to upgrade SPDs

  • Neglecting earthing improvement

Avoiding these mistakes ensures maximum safety and long-term protection.

 

 

10. Benefits of Upgrading Your Lightning Arrester System

  • Enhanced safety for family, employees, and equipment

  • Compliance with modern codes and insurance requirements

  • Reduced risk of electrical surges and fire

  • Increased lifespan of appliances

  • Peace of mind during Bangladesh’s stormy monsoon season

Upgrading with a trusted company like RKW GROUP ensures all these benefits.

 

 

11. Choosing the Right Professional Service

A professional provider ensures:

  • Detailed site survey and risk assessment

  • Proper selection of materials and system design

  • Certified installation and testing

  • Maintenance plans for long-term reliability

RKW GROUP is known for professional expertise, ensuring your lightning arrester system meets modern safety requirements and local conditions.

 

 

12. Upgrading vs. Replacing

Sometimes upgrading may not be enough. Consider replacement if:

  • Rods or conductors are extensively corroded

  • Earthing is inadequate for modern safety standards

  • Roof expansions are large or complex

  • Electrical load has increased significantly

A professional inspection will guide whether upgrading or full replacement is necessary.

Upgrading your Lightning Arrester System in Bangladesh is essential for protecting your home, business, and electrical equipment from lightning hazards. With expert services from RKW GROUP, you can ensure modern compliance, reliable earthing, and long-term safety, making your building storm-ready and secure.