We’ve all been there – frantically pulling out candles and flashlights, checking that devices are charged, and Googling for the hundredth time, “can you flush the toilet in a power outage?”
Instead of finding yourself in the dark like many homeowners, you should take the time to adequately prepare for a potential power outage.
Not only does this make your life less stressful, but it can even keep your family safe during extended periods.
Because electrical safety is a top priority during a power outage, our electrical firm has put together some practical tips.
But first, what causes a power outage?
Primary Causes of Power Outages
There are different classifications of power outages depending on their cause, such as blackouts, brownouts, or distribution failure. Distribution failure is the most common and, unless you live in a major city, it’s probably the one you’ve experienced.
It sounds technical, but distribution failure is just a way to say that the power can’t get from its source to you. These types of power outages are most commonly caused by weather, trees, or animals causing physical damage to a needed structure in the power grid, such as a tree falling on a line and knocking it to the ground.
6 Tips for Surviving a Power Outage
Power outages are inconvenient, but they don’t have to be miserable. By using these six tips, you can be prepared to ride out your next outage in comfort.
Standby Generator
A standby generator, also known as a backup power system, provides your home with an alternate supply of power in the event of an outage. These are permanent systems typically installed underground that kick on when the other sources of power to the home are lost.
Because these systems are fueled by some form of gas, they’re not affected by the loss of power. These types of systems can be especially vital for families with members who may require medical equipment on an around-the-clock basis, or with very young children.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are a temporary, but obviously less expensive solution to power outages. Unlike a permanent underground system, portable generators are placed outside the home during an outage and are fueled by gas.
However, because they’re not directly hooked up to a gas line, portable generators will need to occasionally be replenished of fuel depending on the length of the outage.
Additionally, this equipment can be very noisy as opposed to a system that’s hidden underground, so placement should be carefully considered. Finally, be sure to follow all safety instructions provided with any portable generator.
Unplug Electronics
The power will eventually come back on. When that happens, there is the possibility of a surge. To protect major electronics and appliances, it’s recommended to unplug them during a power outage. Even if plugged into a surge protector, this simple step ensures that everything is safe.
Close the Fridge!
The average refrigerator can keep food cold far longer than people realize during a power outage – if you leave it closed! In other words, limit the opening and closing of any fridge or freezer doors to minimize loss of food.
One solution would be to retrieve all the items you need at once, then place those on ice to be used while the appliance itself stays closed until power returns.
Charge Devices
If you have a warning that a power outage may be coming, such as the presence of a strong storm in your area, it’s important to be proactive and charge all devices, such as rechargeable flashlights, cell phones, tablets, or any needed for vital tasks, such as medical equipment.
If you don’t have a home standby generator, then this leaves your portable generator open to power more important components of your home.
Stay Calm & Patient
It’s easy to get frustrated at the inconvenience of a power outage, but it’s important to remain calm so that you can monitor the situation as needed. Anger isn’t going to bring the power back on! It’s also important to remain patient.
The power companies are likely getting inundated with calls, and the linemen are working very hard to restore power to your area. That’s why it’s your responsibility to take the needed steps to prepare ahead of time!
Protect Your Home with Reliable Backup Power
Power outages are a common occurrence across the country, often caused by storms, vegetation, animal damage, or grid issues. By investing in a standby generator, you can avoid the inconvenience of losing power and keep your home running automatically when the main power source goes out.
Bratcher Electric in Wayne provides trusted electrical services for homeowners and businesses, including generator installation, electrical repairs, panel upgrades, lighting, wiring, and backup power solutions.
Ready to explore your backup power options? Give Bratcher Electric a call today.