Lightning spike-dead sets

In most cases, if the main power supply fails, the low voltage supply that provides enough power so the set can receive input from your remote, also lives on to signal problems, often by flashing the power LED in a pattern.

In your case, apparently the low voltage supply is also dead.

This can be caused by both supplies being damaged from a line surge caused by 'dirty' AC power, or a spike from a lightning strike somewhere in your power network.

These spikes can travel long distance so a strike need not be all that proximate to do damage.

If no fuse holder is found on the back of the set, it may be necessary to remove the back panel for access.

If you choose to do this, it is safer to leave the set unplugged overnight to allow any hazardous voltages to discharge.

Look for a separate board or an area which has larger components in it.

These will be cylindrical cases and larger block-like parts.

If there is a user-replaceable fuse in the set at all, it will most likely be in that area.

If this damage was caused by a high voltage spike replacing the fuse may be fruitless and if a replaced fuse blows again, then other circuits have been damaged and major boards will have to be replaced as well.

The cost of reviving a lightning damaged set of any kind can often exceed the cost of replacing the whole set.

Even the most primitive plug strip contains components that afford some protection against this kind of damage but the best protection can be had with a 'whole house' surge suppressor.

These cost ~$200 US and feature insurance against appliance losses up to $10,000.

They require access to the main breaker box, safety precautions and a few tools for installation.