Lightning Protection: The Truth About Dissipators

When it comes to lightning protection, property owners are often confronted with confusing claims and misleading marketing. One of the most common sources of confusion is the use of lightning dissipators, sometimes marketed as “early streamer emission,” “charge transfer,” or “lightning elimination” devices. These products are often advertised as advanced or superior alternatives to traditional lightning rods—but the truth tells a very different story.

At WB Lightning Rods, we believe in education, transparency, and proven science. Understanding the facts about dissipators can help homeowners, business owners, and facility managers make informed decisions that truly protect their properties.

What Are Lightning Dissipators?

Lightning dissipators are devices typically installed at the highest point of a structure. Manufacturers claim these systems prevent lightning strikes by “dissipating” electrical charge into the atmosphere before a strike can occur. Some claim they can neutralize storm energy or eliminate the need for a conventional lightning protection system altogether.

These claims sound appealing—but they are not supported by independent scientific evidence or recognized safety standards.

The Scientific Reality of Lightning

Lightning is a massive natural electrical discharge generated within storm clouds. A single lightning strike can carry millions of volts and tens of thousands of amps. The idea that a small rooftop device can neutralize or eliminate this energy before a strike occurs contradicts fundamental physics.

Lightning does not “seek out” buildings—it follows the path of least resistance between cloud and ground. The safest and most effective approach is not to try to stop lightning, but to control where it goes once it occurs.

That is exactly what traditional lightning protection systems are designed to do.

Are Lightning Dissipators Proven to Work?

No. Lightning dissipators are not recognized or endorsed by major safety and standards organizations, including:

• NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
• UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
• LPI (Lightning Protection Institute)

The NFPA 780 Lightning Protection Standard does not include dissipators as an approved method of lightning protection. In fact, multiple technical reviews and field studies have failed to demonstrate that dissipators prevent lightning strikes or reduce damage.

In contrast, conventional lightning protection systems have been tested, refined, and successfully used for over a century.

Why Traditional Lightning Rod Systems Are Still the Standard

A properly designed lightning protection system does not attempt to stop lightning. Instead, it:

• Provides a preferred strike point using air terminals (lightning rods)
• Safely conducts lightning energy using heavy-duty conductors
• Disperses energy into the earth through a dedicated grounding system

This approach is backed by decades of real-world performance, laboratory testing, and code compliance. Traditional systems are the only form of lightning protection recognized by national and international safety standards.

The Risks of Relying on Dissipators

Installing a dissipator in place of a certified lightning protection system can expose property owners to serious risks, including:

• False sense of security
• Increased likelihood of structural damage
• Fire hazards
• Insurance claim denials
• Code compliance issues

Insurance companies, engineers, and inspectors often require lightning protection systems to meet NFPA 780 standards. Dissipators generally do not meet these requirements, which can create complications after a loss.

Why Some Dissipator Claims Persist

Dissipators continue to be marketed because they are often misunderstood and poorly regulated. Marketing materials may reference theoretical concepts, proprietary testing, or anecdotal evidence rather than independent verification.

It is important to distinguish between marketing claims and proven engineering practices. When safety, property, and lives are at stake, relying on unproven technology is a risk no property owner should take.

WB Lightning Rods: Built on Proven Protection

At WB Lightning Rods, we install lightning protection systems that are:

• Based on established science
• Compliant with NFPA 780 standards
• Installed using high-quality, UL-listed materials
• Designed for long-term performance and safety

We do not rely on gimmicks or unverified devices. Our systems are engineered to work when lightning strikes—because lightning protection is not about theory, it’s about results.

The Bottom Line on Lightning Dissipators

There is currently no credible scientific evidence proving that lightning dissipators can prevent lightning strikes or replace a conventional lightning protection system. While the concept may sound innovative, it does not meet recognized safety standards or provide reliable protection.

The safest and most responsible choice is a professionally designed and installed lightning protection system that safely controls lightning energy and protects your structure.

If you want real protection—not promises—trust the methods that have stood the test of time.

Learn More from WB Lightning Rods

If you have questions about lightning dissipators or want to protect your home or facility with a proven lightning protection system, WB Lightning Rods is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about solutions that are grounded in science, safety, and experience.