This weekend a very close lightning strike took out several devices in my house. Among the casualties were:

• 2 TVs
• 1 cable modem
• 1 cable box
• 1 garage door opener

One of the TVs, the cable modem, and the cable box were all plugged into transformers that reduced 120 VAC line voltage to 12 VDC (or similar). I tested all the transformers and they are all fried (none of them produce anywhere near their rated output now).

I replaced the cable modem and cable box, but the TV is an expensive item I'd like to salvage if possible. I can replace the transformer for about $15. Is there any chance that transformer "took the hit" and provided enough protection to save the TV? I don't have an easy way of testing it without just buying the replacement transformer.

As a more general question, how much protection do consumer grade transformers provide against voltage fluctuations? I know there's nothing consumer grade that will stop a direct lightning strike, but do they provide effective protection against voltage spikes and drops caused by other disturbances?