Power outages are significant threats to our digital devices. Whether you are at home or work, a power outage poses plenty of technological inconveniences, some more severe than others. Awareness of the common problems caused by power outages and how to prevent outages can help you best protect your home and work devices from the consequences.
Medical Equipment
A severe issue that power outages present is the downtime of medical equipment. If you work in the medical field, this creates ample emergencies at work. Hospitals and medical facilities must have backup power sources to keep life-saving equipment online during a power outage.
Electric-powered medical equipment at home will give out when your home experiences a power outage. High-risk individuals and their families should acquire backup batteries for their at-home medical devices. Secure a list of nearby facilities that have sustainable equipment in case of a long-lasting power outage.
Lighting
A common indicator that there is a power outage is lighting going out. When switches no longer work and lamps refuse to illuminate, be sure to check the power fuse. To help light up your spaces during a power outage, consider keeping extra flashlights and batteries around. You can store your office or home with battery-powered and self-crank flashlights and lanterns for long-lasting light.
HVAC Units
In hot or cold seasons, the inconvenience of common problems caused by power outages becomes even more apparent by taking away HVAC system’s functions. Electrical heating and cooling units stop working when the power is out and leave your home uncomfortably cold or hot.
Freezers and Fridges
During a power outage, avoid checking the fridge or freezer. You want to keep as much cold air encased in the cooling unit, as it will not produce cold air until electricity is back on. Food can stay fresh in a fridge for around 24 hours and frozen in a freezer for up to 36 hours. Examine the groceries in the fridge and freezer after a power outage for any sign food has gone bad.
Entertainment Devices
TVs, speakers, stereos, and other entertainment devices should be unplugged when the power goes out. Pricey equipment is often sensitive to drastic electrical shifts and can undergo damage when power jolts back on. Avoid ruining your favorite devices by taking the necessary precautions during a power outage.
Should I check my fridge and freezer if the power goes out?
During a power outage, avoid checking the fridge or freezer. You want to keep as much cold air encased in the cooling unit, as it will not produce cold air until electricity is back on. Food can stay fresh in a fridge for around 24 hours and frozen in a freezer for up to 36 hours. Examine the groceries in the fridge and freezer after a power outage for any sign food has gone bad.
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