Summers in Amarillo can get incredibly hot. While staying inside your air-conditioned home helps you beat the heat, that comfort can disappear fast if the power goes out. Power outages can happen year-round, but they’re particularly common in summer. Extreme heat pushes more people indoors, increasing air conditioning use and straining the local power grid. High temperatures can also cause power lines and transformers to overheat. On top of that, Amarillo’s strong summer thunderstorms can bring wind, lightning, and blackout conditions. While you can’t always predict when a power outage will hit, you can prepare for it. These tips will help keep your home safer and more comfortable until power is restored.
1. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Every home should have an emergency kit stocked and ready. At a minimum, your kit should include:
- Nonperishable food like canned goods, jerky, dried fruit, or granola bars
- Bottled water (at least 1 gallon per person per day for three days)
- Manual can opener
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Matches and candles (if used safely)
- Portable power bank or backup phone charger
- First aid supplies
Keep your emergency kit somewhere easily accessible. Check it at the start of each summer and restock as needed to ensure everything still works and food hasn’t expired.
2. Keep Your Cell Phone Charged
Your phone may be your only way to contact emergency services or check outage updates. Keep it fully charged whenever possible, especially during heat waves or approaching storms. It’s smart to include a portable power bank or a backup mobile phone (fully charged and powered off) in your emergency kit. Be sure to test both regularly. If an outage lasts longer than expected, that backup device could be a lifeline.
3. Be Careful With Your Air Conditioner
We understand, Amarillo summers are no joke. But cranking your AC during peak hours can overload both your home’s electrical system and the wider grid. If enough households do the same, it can increase the risk of a rolling blackout or brownout in your neighborhood. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the most energy-efficient setting for your AC when you’re home is between 75 and 78°F. You can raise your thermostat to 82–85°F when sleeping or away to save power. Use ceiling fans or box fans to help circulate air; they use far less energy and can make your home feel several degrees cooler. Tip: Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. These devices adjust temperature automatically based on your schedule and can help reduce strain on the grid during peak times. Some utilities, including Xcel Energy, offer rebates for energy-efficient thermostats.
4. Keep a Cooler Handy
A short outage likely won’t spoil your food, but a long one can. Per the USDA, your refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours without power (if the door stays shut). A full freezer can last up to 48 hours; a half-full one, about 24. To help avoid food waste, keep a large cooler nearby along with reusable ice packs or frozen water bottles. If the outage lasts more than a few hours, move your most perishable items to the cooler to keep them colder longer.
What to Do When Your Power Goes Out
Here are a few steps you can take right away:
- Keep your fridge and freezer closed to preserve the cold air.
- Unplug appliances and electronics to prevent damage from potential power surges.
- Use battery-powered lights instead of candles if possible, especially around children or pets.
- Keep windows and doors closed during the day to retain indoor coolness. Use blackout curtains to block sunlight.
- Open windows in the evening if the outdoor temperature drops, Amarillo’s dry air can cool things off quickly at night.
Bonus Tip: Ask your electrician about whole-home surge protection. It helps shield your home’s electrical system from voltage spikes when power is restored, especially useful for protecting HVAC systems and expensive electronics.
What to Do When Power Is Restored
Once power returns:
- Turn on fans first to circulate air. Let your AC catch up slowly instead of turning it to the lowest setting right away.
- Wait to plug in or use all major appliances at once. Give your system time to stabilize before running washers, dishwashers, or ovens.
- Check your home for signs of storm damage. Look for fallen branches, standing water, or downed lines. Stay away from any damaged electrical components and contact emergency services if needed.
- Inspect your food. If you’re unsure about whether something is still safe to eat, play it safe and throw it out.
Call Mister Sparky® in Amarillo for Assistance
Power outages can highlight issues in your electrical system that you didn’t know existed. If you notice damaged outlets, tripped breakers, or unusual sounds or smells after an outage, our licensed electricians are here to help. At Mister Sparky®, we’re available 24/7 for emergency repairs, surge protection installations, panel upgrades, and more. Our team will inspect your home for hidden electrical hazards and help you get back to normal safely. Contact Mister Sparky® in Amarillo today to schedule service or learn more about how we can keep your home protected all summer long.
