A power outage can occur for various reasons, ranging from issues with the external power grid to problems with the property’s internal electrical system. In some situations, simple checks can help identify the source of the problem and even restore power to your home.

Check whether the power outage is limited to your home

The first step is to check whether neighboring properties, building hallways, streetlights, or nearby businesses are also without power.

If the outage affects other homes or the entire neighborhood, the problem may be related to the utility company’s power grid.

Check the electrical panel and circuit breakers

The electrical panel is one of the main things to check during a power outage. Before doing anything else, turn off any electrical appliances that are running, such as the shower, microwave, iron, air conditioner, and television.

Next, check to see if any circuit breakers have tripped. If you find a tripped circuit breaker, try resetting it once.

If the circuit breaker trips again immediately, it’s best not to keep trying and to call a qualified electrician to inspect the property’s electrical system, as there is likely an internal fault in the wiring.

Check to see if the problem occurred after using any specific appliances

In many cases, a power outage occurs shortly after using appliances that draw a higher electrical load, such as an electric shower, air fryer, microwave, hair dryer, or electric iron.

When this happens, there is a possibility of an overload, a short circuit, or a defect in the home’s internal electrical system.

Perform a simple test on the outlets and power points

After checking the circuit breakers, see if the power outage affects the entire home or just certain rooms, outlets, or light fixtures.

If the power outage does not affect the entire property, the problem may be related to a specific circuit in the electrical system.

It’s also important to look for signs such as a burning smell, hot outlets, sparks, or frequent power fluctuations.

Avoid DIY repairs to the electrical system

During a power outage, never attempt to make makeshift repairs to the electrical system, use bare wires, or replace components without technical knowledge.

It is also not recommended to repeatedly reset circuit breakers that keep tripping, as this may indicate internal faults and increase the risk of electric shock, overheating, and short circuits.

When should you contact Neoenergia?

Contact Neoenergia when the power outage is related to the external power grid, affects neighboring properties, or involves situations such as:

Power outages on the street, in neighboring properties, in the neighborhood, or across entire regions;
Broken or downed wires on public roads;
Frequent fluctuations related to the external power grid;
Problems with the electricity meter;
A utility pole at risk of falling or damage to the external power grid.

If the problem is related only to the property’s internal electrical system, it’s best to contact a trusted private electrician.