When winter approaches, it’s vital to be prepared not only if there’s a malfunction with the heating but also if the power were to go out, affecting the whole energy system, including the heating. Power lines are susceptible to sleet, heavy snow, and ice, not to mention fierce winds.
When the power lines go down, the furnace or boiler will stop working as well, leading to an emergency. Fortunately, learning methods for dealing with winter shutdowns before they happen, during the event, and after power is restored can help make the circumstances less dire.
What Should You Do Before the Power Goes Out
With winter coming quickly, everyone knows there’s the potential for power outages as the storms rear their heads whether it’s strong winds, heavy snows, ice, or sleet, the power lines are susceptible to blustery conditions.
While they can withstand a great deal of abuse, there’s still only so much, and then they go down along with the household electricity, including the heating.
That could indeed be a dire situation but there are steps a homeowner can take to make the circumstances less dire and necessities to collect for optimum preparedness. Here are a few tips on what to do before the power outage hits.
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Winterize the property
When there’s no power, there will be minimal choices for heating the property. That means you’ll want to contain as much heat as you can meaning the home should be fully winterized before the frigid weather sets in.
Weatherizing for winter before power outages strike can either be relatively straightforward and budget-friendly or cost-intensive and extensive. The least expensive will include weatherstripping the windows and doors and placing draft guards to prevent warm air from escaping.
Cost-intensive involves adding insulation to the walls, attic, and roof where gaps could be present to avoid air leaks. You can also invest in an energy-efficient front entry door to retain heat.
These strategies are meant to help you stay warm even if the power were to go down. While some are more of an investment, the cost is worth it when you’re without power for a significant period. Visit here to find out how concerned Norway is about power outages over the next five years.
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Keeping pipes from freezing
When water in a pipe freezes and expands, the ice will cause the pipe to burst leading to considerable damage. It can cost thousands in repairs when pipes burst to correct the damage.
The uninsulated pipes that run through unheated areas are most vulnerable to freezing. Those pipes situated in walls that face the outside and ones inside cupboards are also susceptible.
If you take steps to insulate the piping before winter sets in, there’s less likelihood of freezing when the power goes out. Without insulation, you can also let the faucet run at a slight stream to pipes situated on exterior walls. This tiny trickle can help prevent pipe freezing.
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Water and food supplies
Drinkable water and food need to be prioritized for necessities to always keep on hand throughout the winter season. A brownout and a blackout differ in that the blackout will result in a complete power outage.
If the weather is bad enough, the outage could be extensive leading to the food spoiling in the freezer and fridge. You’ll want to have bottled water especially if you have an electric pump or there’s a potential for problems with the tap and “shelf-stable” foods.
Your cooking utensils will determine the foods you keep. Perhaps you have a grill. Ideally, powdered milk, rice, canned goods, instant coffee, cereal, and dried fruit/nuts are staples to have on hand. You’ll need enough water not only to stay hydrated but also to clean up.
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What should you unplug
When it’s likely that the power will go out, you’ll need to consider electronics and appliances. The system will likely experience a surge when the power is restored which could damage these items. The best way to protect them from damage is to unplug everything while the power is out.
If you prefer to leave the appliances plugged in, consider unplugging those items that have computing/electronic parts like:
- Laptop/desktop computers
- Smart appliances like modern washers/dryers with advanced technology
- Televisions
- Microwaves
- Gaming consoles
Before plugging anything back in, wait until the electricity is consistent. It could fluctuate for some time before it’s fully restored.
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A power generator is an option
Choosing an energy-efficient generator as a backup when the power shuts down is an option that can make a winter power outage less dire. The portable device won’t be able to power the entire home but could accommodate some appliances and maintain mobile charging.
Many of these run on fuel or propane making it necessary to have a supply ready for the season stored in a well-ventilated, safe location. The exhaust from these can be toxic, making it imperative that the unit be roughly “15 feet from the home when in use.”
Steps For Staying Warm During a Winter Power Outage
Most homeowners prepare their homes for winter, especially in areas where the temperatures dip to frigid levels and blizzards are a likely occurrence. Still, when these hit and the power is shut off, you’ll need to be prepared with tips for staying safe and comfortable.
The power outage should first and foremost be reported to the utility company. With adequate details, the provider could get the service back on quicker. Please visit bestestrøm.no/alt-om-strømbrudd to learn all about power outages.
Determining the best way to keep the house warm in the winter when there’s a power outage is critical especially if the outage will be extended for a few days.
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A smaller space makes it easier to keep warm
Condense the area if you have a wood stove or fireplace. A small space will stay warmer for longer than a vast open space. Even if you don’t have a heat source, warmth from body heat in a more enclosed space will be warmer than if you’re together in a bigger room.
In that same vein, any doors that lead to the outside should remain closed to avoid the potential for any heat that you do have escaping. If someone needs to go out, the door should only be open enough to pass through and close quickly.
Any open gaps under or around doors and windows should be blocked with towels or anything you must seal the gaps. When warm weather comes, it’s important to find any leaks and permanently seal them. Learn how to keep warm during a power outage at https://www.sintef.no/en/latest-news/2023/for-how-long-can-you-keep-warm-during-a-power-outage/.
What To Do When Power Is Restored
After the power is restored, you can breathe a sigh of relief, but it’s also a time to follow through on the effects of the power outage.
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Check the fridge and freezer items
If the refrigerator and freezer remained shut after the power went out, the food can stay cold for “roughly four hours in the fridge and freezers can maintain their temp for up to 48 hours.” Another tip, if you keep a freezer full, the unit will operate more efficiently because each item will help retain the low temperature.
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Check piping for damage or breaks
Extreme winter temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze in the household. A red flag is seeing pooled water under the piping, low water pressure, nonfunctioning faucets, and so on.
If you believe you have frozen pipes, the water should be shut off at the main valve, and a plumbing professional should be contacted.
Final Thought
Being prepared for a winter power outage before, during, and once the power is restored is critical for your safety and comfort.
Electric providers take every precaution to ensure no one is without power or heating during the coldest months of the year but it’s essential to have a system in place if disaster were to strike.
