Here in Austin, we don’t usually get a huge amount of weather events that are severe enough to cause power outages. However, with the last few years under our belt, we’ve learned to expect the unexpected! Whether you experience loss of electricity after a storm or are worried about controlled blackouts, it’s important to remember the biggest risks to your home while you have no power.
Champion AC & Plumbing may not be able to turn your AC back on if there’s no power, but we can still help you stay as safe as possible until the normal functions of your home are returned. That’s what we call comprehensive service!
Top Dangers In Your Powerless Home
Dehydration
Although you are still in your home during a blackout, don’t let that fool you into thinking you are automatically safe. The rising heat on a warm summer day in Austin can quickly make your home uncomfortable and even dangerous. That’s why it’s so important to keep track of your water intake.
Dehydration can happen a lot faster than you think — especially when you are sweating more due to the lack of AC. Every person in your household needs to have access to one gallon of water per day! You never know how long your power will be out, so always hydrate as much as you can during a loss of electricity.
Heat Stroke
You may think that heat stroke only happens to people out in the sun all day, but you are at risk for getting too hot during a blackout. Your AC is not there to circulate and cool your home, causing your body to work especially hard to regulate its internal temperature. Keep a close eye on all members of your home to see if anyone starts showing symptoms of heat stroke. These symptoms can include:
- Confusion
- Fever
- Headache
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fast breathing
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to seek medical help right away to avoid any permanent effects.
Hunger
Though a few hours without electricity may not be a big deal, several days or even weeks could pose a big problem. If you don’t have dry goods in your pantry, it’s best to stock up on them just in case. Great nonperishables that keep for a long time are things like canned foods, nut butters and protein bars.
Loss Of Security
Don’t forget that the loss of power to your home means that no alarm systems or electrical locking mechanisms work! If you need to leave your home while the power is off, make sure you have secondary security measures in place. Lock all your windows, draw your curtains and make sure you are confident that your home is secure.
Electrical Appliance Damage
You may be hoping for the power to turn back on as soon as possible, but the electrical surge that occurs when all the power turns back on can easily damage appliances in your home. Be aware that your AC and other appliances may be shorted out or struggling. Also, make sure you don’t try to operate any large appliances like garage doors. If the power is suddenly returned, you may be in danger when it abruptly begins to move or work.
Do You Need AC Repairs After A Power Outage?
If you notice that your air conditioner is less efficient or not working properly after a blackout, you need a professional to assess the unit. Our team at Champion AC & Plumbing is your best option for stellar AC repair services. We’ll get your system cooling again in no time. Give us a call!
