Power cuts are inconvenient, but most of the damage and risk happens in the minutes after the power fails and the moment it comes back. A few simple habits protect your appliances, your wiring and your family.
First, work out what has failed
Look outside or check with neighbours. If the whole street is dark, the outage is on the supply network and there is nothing to fix inside your property. If only your property, or part of it, has lost power, check your distribution board. A tripped breaker or RCD means the fault is on your side, and you should follow the checks in our breaker tripping guide.
While the power is off
- Use torches or battery lanterns rather than candles where possible. If you must use candles, keep them away from curtains and never leave them unattended.
- Switch off or unplug sensitive electronics such as computers, televisions and routers.
- Turn off heaters, irons, cookers and other heat-producing appliances so they do not restart unattended.
- Leave one light switched on so you know when power returns.
- Keep fridges and freezers closed to hold the cold for longer.
When the power comes back
Supply can fluctuate for a few minutes after restoration. Wait before reconnecting everything, then switch appliances back on gradually rather than all at once. This avoids a sudden surge in demand that can trip breakers and stress older wiring.
Using generators and inverters safely
Never connect a generator by plugging it into a wall socket. Back-feeding can energise the supply cables outside and put line workers at serious risk, as well as damaging your equipment. Generators and inverters must connect through a proper changeover arrangement installed by an electrician. Run fuel generators outdoors only, well away from doors and windows, because exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Signs something is wrong after an outage
- A burning smell from sockets, switches or the board.
- Lights much brighter or dimmer than normal.
- Breakers that will not reset.
- Appliances that stopped working when others are fine.
Any of these warrant a call to an electrician. Switch off at the main switch if it is safe to do so, and keep people away from damaged fittings.
Want backup power that switches over safely? Learn about our EV charger and backup power installations, or call 01915-491405 for our 24/7 emergency service.