Local power grids aren’t perfect, and when they go down, homeowners can find themselves scrambling for solutions. When you face an unexpected power outage, knowing what to do can help you protect your home, stay safe, and restore power more smoothly.
Check Your Panel Box
If the outage seems limited to one area of your home, check your circuit breaker panel. A tripped breaker could be the cause. To reset it, move the tripped breaker fully to the OFF position first, then back to ON. Simply flipping it without turning it off first won’t work.
Check Your Utility Company’s Outage Map
If your whole home is without power, visit your utility provider’s website or mobile app to see if there’s a reported outage in your area. If not, report it so they can send a crew to investigate and repair the issue.
Unplug Major Appliances
When power is restored, it can send a brief surge through your home’s electrical system. While short, this surge can damage sensitive electronics and appliances. As a precaution, unplug items like your HVAC system, refrigerator, computer, and TV until the power stabilizes. If your home already has a whole-home surge protector, this step is less critical—but still a good habit during prolonged outages.
Use Safe Emergency Lighting
Your phone’s flashlight is helpful, but its battery won’t last forever. Keep LED lanterns or flashlights in an easy-to-reach spot, and store spare batteries so you’re prepared for extended outages.
Avoid Opening Cold Appliances
Food safety is a major concern during outages:
- A refrigerator will keep food safe for about 4 hours if unopened.
- A full freezer will keep food frozen for up to **48 hours** (24 hours if half-full).
Keep doors closed to preserve cold air. If the outage will be longer, transfer food to coolers with ice.
Use Battery Saver Mode
After severe weather, you’ll want to check on loved ones—but constant calls and scrolling can drain your phone quickly. Switch to battery saver mode, limit unnecessary use, and keep a car charger handy for longer outages.
Have a Battery or Crank Radio
Cell towers can fail during major storms. A battery-powered or crank radio will let you receive weather alerts and outage updates without relying on your phone.
Staying Cool Tips
If the outage happens in summer, close curtains or blinds to block sunlight and slow indoor heating. Battery-powered fans can also help make things more comfortable until your HVAC is running again.
Staying Warm Tips
In winter, retain as much heat as possible:
- Keep doors and windows closed.
- Gather in one main room to conserve warmth.
- Use blankets and layers.
For multi-day outages in freezing conditions, open cabinet doors and let faucets drip to prevent frozen pipes. Shut off the main water supply only if you expect to be without heat for an extended period or are leaving the home. Never use grills, outdoor heaters, or other fuel-burning devices indoors—they produce deadly carbon monoxide. Use only properly vented fireplaces for heat.
Don’t Use a Generator Indoors
Portable generators should never be used inside the home or garage. Keep them at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
A Note on Whole-Home Surge Protectors
Power surges after an outage can harm your appliances and electronics. A whole-home surge protector, installed at your main electrical panel, diverts excess energy safely into the ground before it reaches your devices. This protects your wiring, appliances, and electronics.
Considering a Whole-Home Generator
A whole-home generator is a permanent standby system that automatically turns on when it detects a power loss. It can run your HVAC, refrigerator, lights, and security systems—keeping your household safe and comfortable until grid power returns.
Expert Whole-Home Generator Installation Service
Mister Sparky® offers expert whole-home generator installation, repair, and maintenance services for New Haven, CT, homeowners. Call us today to schedule your consultation and enjoy peace of mind the next time the lights go out.
