Question
I have had to replace my lawn sprinkler controller by Hardie Irrigation twice due to storm activity in a period of about ten years. The second time I used a surge protector, promising $10K worth of protection if it failed. After the last storm the controller screen read, "short" even when connected to the surge protector. I purchased a Hunter and had it installed by a service man. I also was given a new surge protector by the original manufacturer with a higher rating. At $200.00 a pop, I'm wondering if I have the right surge protector.
I called Hunter and they recommended a product, but the manufacturers' rep said that they wouldn't gurantee it. Do I just unplug the controller each time I use it and replug it when needed?

Answer
First of all I am sorry to hear what has happened.  If you know you are going to have a storm and you are home of course you can unplug the timer. On the hunter timer which I assume is a pro-c model they will hold the program for atleast 24hrs so if you remember to plug it back in atleast you will not have to worry about all of the settings. But since its supposed to be an automatic system its probably not something that you wanted to have to worry about. Is the controller on a gfi outlet?  I wish I could be of more help, it seems like you have done you due diligence in the matter. There is no one surge protector or timer that I have seen that will out perform another. I do know that older mechanical timers were the norm in areas of high risk of lighting but then they have banned them in those same areas now since they were known to malfunction and cause fires.