2 minute read
What to Do Before, During and After a Power Failure
by Andrew Martella, Expert Contributor and Owner of Martella Electric
What causes your electrical power to go out? Automobile accidents can damage utility poles. High winds, snow and ice can pull down power lines. Utility company maintenance sometimes doesn’t go as planned. And occasionally, the cause is in your own home’s electrical system.
There are some things you can do to avoid a power failure, and many things you can do to be prepared before, during and after the power and lights go out.
A short or extended widespread power failure is not a problem if your home has a gas-powered backup generator system. Some folks feel such an investment is well worth the cost because it ensures they’ll have electricity, heat and A/C year round regardless of what may cause a power failure.
When weather forecasters predict conditions that could result in a power outage, make sure you have on hand plenty of bottled water and a battery-operated radio. Fully charge your cellphone and one or two mobile power banks/blocks, and put fresh batteries in your flashlights. Discuss with your family a plan to relocate if authorities require residents to evacuate.
If your lights go out but your neighbors’ lights are still on, an electrical problem is affecting only your home. Check your circuit breaker panel or fuse box, to see if any breakers are tripped or fuses are burned out. A tripped circuit breaker or burnedout fuse may control many lights, making it seem like your entire house has no power. If all looks fine, check the meter box and electrical cables on your home’s exterior.
If your neighborhood loses power, calling your local utility company can usually keep you updated about repair status and estimated time until power restoration. Many power companies now have a mobile app that provides such information.
During a power failure, you can extend the life of your cold and frozen food by keeping your refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Many times, the power is out for only a few hours and food spoilage is not an issue.
When your cellphone’s battery needs to be charged and your power block is empty, you can recharge both batteries by plugging them into the live power sources inside your car.
If you see anything unusual such as water dripping from the breaker box or the outside electrical wiring or equipment pulled away from your home, or if you smell a strange odor, you should immediately have an inspection done by a licensed and insured electrical contractor.
Andrew Martella, Expert Contributor and Owner of Martella Electric
484-997-3097
www.MartellaElectric.com
Martella Electric Company is a team of courteous, professional, and highly trained electricians. Our priority is to deliver superior customer service backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
• Electrical Service Upgrades • Landscape Lighting • Circuit Breaker Panels • Fireguard Circuit Breakers • Security Lighting • Recessed Lighting • Electric Vehicle Charging • LED Under-Cabinet Lighting • Lighting Controls • Exhaust Fans
