Summer Storms in Northern VA Cause Home Power Outages: What to Do When the Power Goes Out?

Summer in Northern Virginia is synonymous with long, sunny days, lush greenery, and frequent thunderstorms. These storms can be unpredictable and intense, often leading to power outages.

Whether your whole house is suddenly in the dark or just a portion of it, knowing the right steps to take can ease your concerns and restore your home’s power efficiently. Here’s what you should do if the power goes out in your home during a storm.

Steps to Take During a Whole-House Power Outage

When your entire house loses power during a storm, it’s crucial to stay calm and safe. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

Step #1: Check Your Surroundings

First, determine if the outage is limited to your home or is affecting the entire neighborhood. Look out the window and see if streetlights and nearby houses have also lost power.

Step #2: Report the Outage

Contact your local power company immediately to report the outage. In Northern Virginia, companies like Dominion Energy have 24/7 support and can provide updates on the situation. They can give you an estimated time for the power to be restored and inform you of the cause of the outage.

Step #3: Unplug Electronics

To protect sensitive electronics from potential power surges when the electricity is restored, unplug them. This includes computers, televisions, and kitchen appliances.

Step #4: Use Flashlights, Not Candles

For safety, rely on flashlights, battery-powered lanterns, or solar lanterns to see rather than candles, which can pose a fire hazard if knocked over.

Step #5: Keep Refrigerator Doors Closed

To preserve food, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if it remains unopened.

Partial Home Power Outage: Time to Call an Electrician

If you notice that the power is out in only a portion of your house, the issue is likely internal and not with the power grid. Here’s what to do when facing a partial outage:

• Check the circuit breaker. Locate your home’s circuit breaker panel and inspect it for any tripped breakers. Flip the tripped breaker to the “off” position and then back to “on.” This could solve the issue if it’s a minor circuit overload.
• Examine for damages. After resetting the breakers, assess any visible damage or scorch marks on outlets or switches. These signs indicate a potential electrical hazard requiring professional intervention.
• Call a professional electrician. If resetting the breaker doesn’t resolve the problem, or if you’re uncomfortable handling the electrical panel, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Partial power loss often points to faulty wiring or issues with the electrical panel that require expert diagnosis and repair.

The Importance of Professional Electrical Help

Whether dealing with a complete outage or a partial power issue after a storm, safety should always be your top priority. Attempting DIY repairs on electrical systems without proper expertise can lead to injury, home damage, or exacerbate the problem. Contacting a licensed professional can provide you with the guidance and expertise you need to restore your power safely.

Contact CoreTrade Electric for All Your Electrical Assistance Needs

At CoreTrade Electric, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing electrical issues quickly and safely. If you’re experiencing partial power outages in Northern Virginia, our team of licensed electricians is ready to assist. Don’t let electrical issues disrupt your home—contact CoreTrade Electric today for a professional solution to all your electrical needs.