After a power outage

What to do after a power outage

Once your power is back on, here are some tips on what to do after a power outage to protect your appliances and devices and things to check.

1. Turn on only t​​he most essential appliances

• Give the​ electrical system a chance to stabilize. Wait 10 to 15 minutes before reconnecting other appliances.

2. If devices do not turn on, check the circuit breaker

• First, unplug all your devices and appliances that are not already plugged into a surge protector.
• Check the circuit breaker. You might have to reset the breaker after a power outage.
• If your furnace doesn't kick in after the power outage, it might turn on after resetting the circuit breaker.
  • Newer thermostats that are wired directly to the furnace can reset during a power outage. Check the settings on your thermostat. If they've reset to the factory defaults, you'll have to reprogram it.
  • If your furnace is tied to a GFCI outlet, the outlet may have tripped. Look in your utility room for a GFCI outlet and press the reset button on it.
  • If problems persist, contact a local HVAC company.

3. Check your fr​idge and freezer

• Make sure they're back on.
• If power was out for more than four hours, check the temperature of your fridge. Be mindful of food safety during a power outage. You may need to throw food out.

4. Replace an​​y items you used from your emergency kit

• If you used any item​s from your emergency kit, be sure to replace them so you’re prepared for future outages.

5. Check you​​​r property

• If a storm caused your power outage, check your property for damage, debris, fallen trees, or power lines.
• If something has contacted a power line or a power line is down, stay 10 meters away from the area. Call our power emergency line at 780-412-4500. We will send out a crew to safely remove debris from the power line and make any necessary repairs to power equipment.

6. ​​​Reset your clocks, timers, and alarms