What To Do If Your Power Keeps Going On and Off

Power disruptions can frustrate tenants, landlords, and property managers. They’re common issues in residential properties that lead to tenant dissatisfaction, safety concerns, and even damage to valuable appliances. As a result, you’ll want to address the problem immediately to prevent it from escalating.

Fortunately, some practical solutions will keep the lights on in the properties you manage and reduce your stress levels. This article explores the various causes of your power going on and off, provides immediate steps to mitigate the impact, and discusses long-term preventive measures to ensure a stable and reliable power supply.

Identifying the Causes of Power Fluctuations

When the power in your property keeps going on and off, the first step is figuring out what’s causing it. Here are some common causes and signs to watch for:

Common Causes

  • Weather Conditions: Severe weather, like storms or high winds, can damage power lines, causing temporary outages. Lightning strikes can also lead to power surges that affect your building’s electrical system. A recent study published in PLOS Climate Journal notes that extreme weather accompanies 39.9% of all New York State power outages, and there isn’t much you can do to prevent these weather-related issues.
  • Infrastructure Issues: Older buildings might have outdated wiring that can’t handle modern electrical loads. Overloaded circuits, which occur when a resident plugs too many devices into a single circuit, can also cause intermittent power issues.
  • Utility Company Problems: Sometimes, the problem originates outside your property. Issues with the local utility company’s infrastructure, such as maintenance work or equipment failure, can result in an unstable power supply.
  • Internal Property Issues: Faulty appliances or internal wiring problems can also be culprits. Damaged or worn-out wires within the building can create inconsistent electrical flow, leading to power fluctuations.

Signs to Look For

  • Frequent Flickering Lights: If lights are flickering often, it signals an issue with the electrical system.
  • Unusual Noises: Buzzing or humming sounds from electrical systems or appliances can indicate wiring or circuit problems.
  • Power Surges or Dips: If the power seems to surge or dip during certain times, such as when large appliances are in use, it suggests an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring.

Paying attention to the signs helps property managers make informed decisions and quickly address and resolve intermittent power issues. The result is a safer and more reliable environment for tenants.

Steps To Take When Power Goes On and Off

Dealing with intermittent power can be challenging, but immediate action can help reduce the impact and ensure safety. Here’s what to do when the power keeps going on and off:

Safety Measures

First, have your tenants turn off and unplug sensitive electronics and appliances during power fluctuations to prevent damage. This step includes removing the power to computers, televisions, and kitchen appliances.

Next, ensure tenants are safe by providing emergency lighting like flashlights or battery-powered lanterns. Clear communication is crucial, so inform tenants about the situation and any steps you’re taking to resolve it.

Documenting the Issue

Record each power interruption, noting the time, duration, and specific conditions like weather or high appliance usage. This information is helpful when diagnosing the problem or discussing it with professionals.

You’ll also want to keep your tenants in the loop. Regular updates help manage expectations and reduce frustration.

Initial Checks

When you arrive on the property, check for any visible damage or nearby issues, such as downed power lines, blown fuses, or signs of electrical faults. Ensure these areas are safe and cordoned off if necessary.

Next, you’ll want to inspect the circuit breakers and fuse boxes for tripped breakers or blown fuses. Reset any tripped breakers and replace any blown fuses, but if they trip or blow again immediately, it’s a sign of a more significant issue that requires professional attention.

These steps can help manage power interruptions effectively, ensuring safety and laying the groundwork for a more permanent solution.

Long-Term Solutions and Preventive Measures

Addressing intermittent power issues requires a proactive approach to ensure they don’t disrupt your property in the future. Implementing some long-term solutions should be a priority to keep your properties running smoothly.

Routine Maintenance

Schedule regular inspections of your property’s electrical systems. These inspections should involve checking for wear and tear, ensuring connections are secure, and identifying potential issues before they become significant problems.

If your property has old wiring or equipment, consider upgrading. Modern electrical systems can handle higher loads more efficiently and safely. Replacing old wiring can prevent many common power issues.

Working with the Utility Company

Frequent power outages can signal underlying power supply issues, so report them to your utility company. They can investigate and address larger grid issues affecting your property.

It’s also advisable to stay informed about any ongoing or planned upgrades by your utility provider. Understanding these outages can help you anticipate, prepare, and relay the information to your tenants.

Investing in Power Backup Solutions

In some scenarios, installing generators or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems might be worth the investment. These devices provide temporary power or emergency lighting during outages, ensuring essential services and safety systems remain operational.

With weather-related outages being impossible to predict or prevent, having an emergency power source makes all kinds of sense. However, if you go with a UPS or generator, you must inform your tenants about the backup systems and how to use them if they aren’t automatic.

When to Call in Professional Help

Your Electrical Maintenance Expert

If you experience persistent power problems despite initial checks and maintenance, it’s time to call in professionals. Complex issues like major rewiring, generator installations, or electrical repairs require technical expertise.

Of course, choosing a reliable electrician or electrical contractor is a priority, so consider their certifications, experience, and customer reviews. A qualified professional will complete the job correctly and safely, minimizing risk.

Working with a professional contractor can also help you develop a comprehensive electrical maintenance plan for your property. This plan should include regular follow-ups and inspections to keep your electrical systems in optimal condition.

You want long-term solutions and preventive measures because they’ll reduce your power supply issues, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for properties and enhancing tenant satisfaction.

Your tenants can’t go without electrical service, and even minor disruptions can put them under stress, driving dissatisfaction. If you’re receiving complaints about the power going on and off, call Bolt Electric at 212.434.0098 to find out why and develop a solution.

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