Power outages can lead to more than just your lights going out. Forcing sensitive electronics to shutdown unexpectedly can result in data loss or damage to electrical systems. When power returns, a surge can damage TVs, appliances, and even heating and AC systems. Power outages can be impossible to predict, so be sure to prepare your home with the following devices.
PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR POWER OUTAGES:
Before or during Power Outages:
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
These devices can protect against all power disturbances. These work by providing battery backup to critical electronics to protect them from sudden shutoffs.
- Energy Storage
Energy storage systems consist of batteries that provide backup during service interruptions. These can be used to power critical systems in your home. Energy storage systems can be paired with home solar power to become more energy independent. Utilities may offer incentives for energy storage systems.
- Smart Meters
Smart meters allow for greater communication between your home’s electrical needs and your energy provider. These can help you reduce energy costs and provide utilities with more information on how much electricity is being used in their service areas.
- Generators & Transfer Switches
Generators provide energy during power interruptions. Both portable and standby generators should be used with a transfer switch to prevent unintentional energization of surrounding areas which could cause harm to utility workers or neighbors. Install CO detectors and keep generators at least 20 feet from homes and away from doors and windows.
Recovering from Power Outages:
- Surge Protective Devices (SPD):
SPDs protect against voltage spikes that can cause damage to your electronics when full power is restored. Whole-home surge protection is required in the 2020 National Electrical Code.
