We all inevitably experience power outages more often than not, to the extent that we can sometimes get used to their occurrence.
However, not all of us have any rudimentary knowledge of what even causes power outages in the first place, or how to properly deal with them.
In this guide, we will not only tackle the common causes of power outages, but we will also discuss things that you can do after a power failure and how to be ready for them whenever they happen.
It is important to resort to professional electricians to assist with the issue if it is rather repetitive.
What is a Power Outage?
A power outage (also known as a power failure or power cut) is a partial or total loss of electrical power to an end user or a specific area.
What are the Different Types of Power Outages?
Power outages can be manifested in several forms, including:
Blackouts
A blackout is a complete power disruption and loss of electrical power to a service area or end user.
Rolling Blackouts
Also known as rotating outages or load shedding, rolling blackouts are a temporary power outage that is deliberately controlled by a utility company, in an attempt to manage an over-demand on the power grid.
Brownouts
A brownout is a temporary drop in the voltage of an electrical power supply. In this case, the power is not completely disrupted, but the voltage is reduced below the normal level.
Transient Outages
A transient outage is a temporary interruption of power that is often resolved and self-corrects on its own after a short time.
Permanent Faults
Despite its name, a permanent fault is not necessarily permanent. It is an electrical power interruption that takes place due to damaged power lines or power grid, which requires manual intervention and repair.
Once the electrical fault is identified and resolved by a professional, the power can be restored.
How Long Does a Power Outage Usually Last?
The typical duration of a power outage depends on its severity:
Short Outages:
- Duration: A few seconds to a couple of hours
- Causes: E.g. tripped breaker and malfunction of electrical equipment
Moderate Outages:
- Duration: Several hours to a day
- Causes: E.g. local grid issues and equipment failure
Extended Outages:
- Duration: A few days to a couple of weeks
- Causes: E.g. Cyberattacks and major natural disasters
What are the Common Causes of Power Outages?
Here are the most common causes of outages:
Equipment Failure
If the equipment that supplies electricity to your property is defective, a power outage can occur. Equipment failure can be exemplified by:
- Aging power infrastructure
- Transformer failures
- Circuit breaker issues
- Wear and tear
- Generator malfunctions
- Inadequate maintenance
- Underground cable defects
- Manufacturing flaws
Severe Weather
Extreme weather can be one of the major causes of power outages, as it leads to downed power lines. The following are some instances of severe weather:
- Lightning
- High winds
- Ice and snow
- Heavy rains
- Heat waves
High Energy Demand
When there is high electricity demand that exceeds the available supply, and the power grid cannot handle it, it can lead to an overload and a potential power outage.
Human Error
A power outage can also be greatly attributable to man-made damage. Examples of human errors that result in outages are:
- Damage to power lines during construction
- Excavation digging
- Vehicle collisions with utility poles or electrical infrastructure
- Mistakes in grid operations
- Maintenance errors
It is important to always call 811 before starting any digging project in order to locate underground lines and prevent a potential power outage.
Natural Disasters
Power outages can occur owing to natural disasters, which can lead to the disruption of power grids. Such natural catastrophes encompass:
- Tornadoes and hurricanes
- Wildfires
- Earthquakes
- Mudslides
- Landslides
- Volcanic eruptions
Fallen Trees
Fallen trees and broken branches—especially during storms—can seem like an unusual reason for power outages, but they are actually one of the common causes.
When trees fall onto power lines or utility poles, the electrical flow is disrupted right away, leading to outages.
Cyber Attacks
- Interruption of important services
- Blackouts
- Financial losses
- Utility companies’ reputational damage
- National security risks
Vandalism and Theft
Acts of vandalism (like the deliberate damaging of transformers, substations, and power lines) can cause widespread disruptions in the electrical power supply.
Moreover, some thieves aim at stealing electrical equipment and valuable components, such as copper wiring, which also leads to power outages.
Animals and Wildlife Interference
The intrusion of wildlife and specific animals results in power outages. This happens when they come in contact with electrical devices or power lines, causing disruptions in the power supply, as well as short circuits and equipment damage.
Examples of these animals are:
- Squirrels
- Birds
- Snakes
- Insects
- Rats
- Raccoons
Planned Power Outages
Planned outages are scheduled in advance by utility companies when they need to carry out upgrades, repairs, or maintenance on the power grid.
Not only that, but planned outages are sometimes deliberated by utility companies as a preventative measure, which reduces the risk of hazards (like wildfires) during extreme weather.
What to Do When the Power Goes Out?
When the power goes out, you might get confused as to what to do in that particular moment.
Check out the list below for essential things you must do during a power outage:
- Unplug electronics and appliances (to protect them from power surges)
- Report the outage to a utility company
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed
- Don’t use the stove or oven for heat
- Use flashlights
- Conserve phone battery
- Set up backup power
- Check the electrical panel
How to Be Prepared for Power Outages?
If you wish to be always prepared for any unexpected occurrence of power outages, then we recommend you do the following to be ready:
- Have an emergency kit prepared
- Keep torches and batteries always within reach
- Practice generator safety
- Charge your devices
- Backup power source
- Sign up for alerts
- Store water
Our Professional Electricians at Route Electrical LTD Can Lend a Hand
If you happen to suffer from persistent power outages in London, then Route Electrical LTD can come over and professionally assist.
No matter the electrical issue that you are confronted with, we can resolve it with profound expertise and skillset.
We offer numerous electrical services, including electrical installations, electrical repairs, house rewiring, and much more.
Do not hesitate to reach out to us today to get a free quotation!
