Unplug sensitive electronics, use surge protectors, delay the fridge, and handle sump pumps and garage doors safely when the power goes out and returns.
- Unplug sensitive electronics and keep one lamp on to spot the return of power.
- Wait a few minutes after power returns, then restart items one at a time.
- Know your garage door manual release and consider sump pump backup.
The outage itself rarely damages your appliances. The risk comes when power returns, sometimes with surges, flickers or a sudden load as everything restarts. A few simple habits protect expensive equipment and keep your home safer.
Unplug sensitive electronics
As soon as the power goes out, unplug computers, TVs, game consoles, routers, printers and audio equipment. Unplugging is the surest way to protect them from a surge, since a power strip's switch does not always isolate the equipment. Make it easy: group these items on a few power strips, so you can pull a few plugs rather than a dozen. Do it only if it is safe, and never during a lightning storm if you would have to touch wet or damaged wiring.
Use surge protectors the right way
A surge protector helps against smaller power spikes. It will not fully protect against a nearby lightning strike, and the protective parts wear out over time, so check the manufacturer's guidance and replace old units. Look for a model with a clear indicator that its protection is still working. For high value equipment such as computers, a whole home surge protector installed by a licensed electrician is another option to discuss. Avoid daisy-chaining power strips.
- Keep protectors off carpets and away from water.
- Do not overload a strip beyond its rating.
- Use protectors for TVs, computers, routers and anything with sensitive circuits.
Leave one lamp on
Leave one light switched on, ideally an LED or CFL, so you know the moment power returns. Then you can check things calmly rather than discovering the power came back hours ago. Turn off or unplug lights and appliances you do not need, so the house does not demand everything at once.
Stagger the restart
When power returns, wait a few minutes before plugging things back in. Utilities often see power flicker or fail again soon after restoration. Then plug in major items one at a time. For heating and air conditioning, turn them back on gradually to avoid a large load at once.
Give the fridge and freezer a delay
Compressors in fridges, freezers and air conditioners can be stressed when power flickers on and off. A commonly given tip is to wait several minutes after power returns before restarting an air conditioner, and to check your owner's manual for the fridge. Keep doors closed to hold the cold, and see our food safety guide for what is safe to eat. If you use a power station, see how long a power station will run a fridge.
Sump pumps and water systems
A sump pump needs power to work, and an outage during heavy rain can lead to flooding. If you have a sump pump, ask a plumber or electrician about a battery backup system, and test it. Well pumps also stop without power, so store water ahead of time; see how much water to store. Never wade through standing water in a basement where outlets, cords or equipment may be live; call an electrician.
Garage door openers
Electric openers stop working in an outage. Learn where the manual release cord is (usually a red handle hanging from the rail) and practise using it with the door closed. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and be careful because a heavy door with a broken spring can fall. Make sure everyone old enough knows how to open it. Re-engage the opener only according to the manual after power returns.
Plan your backup
A battery power station can keep key electronics running safely indoors. Start with the power station sizing guide and our power station hub.
Quick answers
Is a surge protector enough?
It helps against smaller spikes, but it cannot guarantee protection from a nearby lightning strike. Unplugging is the surest protection.
Why wait before turning things back on?
Power can flicker or fail again soon after restoration, and a big sudden load can stress equipment. Staggering the restart is gentler.