What to Do in Case of a Power Outage at Home?

Power outages can occur for many reasons. Severe weather events are the most common cause, such as the 2017 NSW blackout caused by Cyclone Debbie, during which 100,000 properties lost power. However, a localised event can also occur, such as a service line issue, electrical faults, or outages inside a home.

Home and business owners must know how to respond to a power outage, especially when it is caused by extreme weather conditions and electrical issues within their properties. They must also learn practical tips to keep safe until power is restored. 

A level 2 electrician is an accredited professional qualified to handle complex electrical installations, repairs and audits, especially power outages. This guide focuses on what you must do in case of an outage and how a level 2 electrician can help. 

Immediate Steps to Take During a Power Outage

Power outages can happen without warning. Thus, you and your family must know what to do. 

Check if the Outage is Localised

As soon as the power goes out, assess the situation to determine the cause of the outage. Is the blackout inside your home, or does it affect your neighbourhood? Remember these home power outage steps:

• Check your breaker box to see if the outage was due to a blown fuse. 
• Smell the air for any burning scent. An outage may be due to an electrical issue in your home.
• Go outdoors and check nearby problems for the same issue.
• Check your mobile for local power companies or community warnings about service issues, repairs, or installations.

For localised power outages, such as an outage in your home or nearby properties, call your power company or a level 2 electrician for emergency repairs.

Unplug Sensitive Electronics

Some electrical appliances have sensitive electronic components which may become damaged due to voltage surges when power returns. Unplugging these from the wall socket is important as soon as the power goes out. Remember to unplug your:

• Televisions
• Computers
• Printers
• Gaming consoles
• Microwaves
• Advanced technology washer and dryers

Have a cooler handy to store temperature-sensitive medications such as insulin, antibiotics, and vaccines. Also, unplug chargers and power tools.

Use Battery-Powered Devices

Battery-powered lights and radios can help you keep safe and informed during a power outage. Always keep spare batteries at home in case of an outage.

Did you know that your mobile phone has a radio function? Most phones have a radio app; just connect your headphones to your phone, and you can listen to the radio anytime. The app also allows you to add preset radio stations for easy emergency access.

Common Causes of Power Outages

Power outages can disrupt work, affect your home, and put your property and family at risk. Here are the most common causes of an outage.

Weather-Related Issues

Extreme weather conditions are not uncommon in Australia; in fact, these are the usual reasons why homes, communities, and even an entire state can lose power.

Issues such as storms, high winds, lightning, and heat waves can damage power lines and transformers. Storms can also bring extreme rain and flooding, prompting local power companies to shut down power.

Lighting can destroy power systems, while severe heat can melt cables and components. In Victoria, around 500,000 homes lost power due to a heatwave in 2009.

Service Line or Meter Problems

Power outages in homes are mostly caused by meter box power issues, service line issues, or the use of unsafe wiring or electrical appliances.

Old homes with obsolete meter boxes may need to be upgraded to handle power loads. When overlooked, these could trip the breaker or bust a fuse, causing the power to go out. A power outage service line issue such as antiquated components or faulty connections, can trip and cut power to your home.

Power interruptions in your home are avoidable. A level 2 electrician can help assess your home for faults and issues and recommend repairs to avoid accidents and outages.

Utility Company Outages

Sometimes, the power outage is due to issues on the utility company’s end. Issues such as overloaded transmission lines, equipment failure, and problems with the energy supply can lead to widespread power outages. To find out, call your local electrical company to check. You may also look for announcements on their social media pages or through text messages.

When to Call a Level 2 Electrician

Contact a level 2 electrician for outages related to service line damage, meter box or switchboard issues and for upgrading your old electrical systems.

Service Line Damage

A damaged service line leading to your home can result in an outage. Damage may be due to many reasons, such as severe weather, wildlife, or natural wear. A Level 2 electrician for power outages is authorised to handle live connections, ensuring their work complies with safety and local standards.

Meter Box or Switchboard Issues

An old or damaged meter box or switchboard needs replacement, which can cause electrocution and outages. Only a level 2 electrician can assess and repair these electrical fixtures, ensuring proper upgrades and reconnection.

Upgrading Electrical Systems

Outdated wiring, meter boxes, and switchboards can pose risks for electrical issues and power outages. A level 2 electrician must do a system upgrade. They can safely and efficiently assess issues, upgrade your home’s electrical capacity, and improve overall safety.

Ensuring Safety During a Power Outage

Practice safety and presence of mind during an outage. Remember these power outage safety tips:

Stay Away from Downed Power Lines

A crucial home electrical safety measure during an outage is staying safely away from downed power lines.

• Keep your distance at least ten metres away.
• Do not touch anything that has been in contact with the downed line (cars, fences, signage, etc.)
• Call emergency services ASAP.

Use Generators Safely

Generators can be handy during an outage but should be used properly to prevent accidents.

• Operate the generator outdoors, away from doors and windows.
• Place it 20 feet away from the property.
• Place the generator exhaust away from your home.
• Use outdoor-rated extension cords to connect your home appliances to the generator.

Plan for Extended Outages

Stay prepared for an extended power outage to ensure your and your family’s safety and comfort.

• Keep a good supply of fresh batteries to power your flashlights and radio.
• Stock up on bottled water and non-perishable food.
• Have your power bank fully charged so you can power your phone and other mobile devices.
• Have your basic first aid kit handy.
• Prepare extra blankets and clothing.

How Local Electrician Sydney Can Help

Local Electrician is your emergency electrician in Sydney, who can help assess your property repair issues and restore power at home.

Expertise in Handling Power Outages

Local Electrician is a level 2 electrician in Sydney with expertise in handling different power outages. We guarantee

• Prompt emergency response for all electrical issues
• Expert meter box repairs
• Experienced service line repair during outage
• Efficient switchboard maintenance

We handle all routine electrical jobs and complex projects, ensuring your family’s and property’s safety.

Prompt and Professional Service

We are known for our prompt and professional service. We restore power safely and quickly. Our skilled team can deliver reliable solutions for all types of electrical issues.

Contact Local Electrician Sydney for quick assistance during a power outage. To avoid power issues and outages, schedule an inspection to prevent future issues.