Power outages have many causes. In some instances, your service provider plans them and you will be well informed of the scheduled time for the outage. In other situations, a power outage is the unexpected cause of an external factor, such as a violent storm. Then there are the times when the problem is localized within your home, and in these situations it is up to you find a solution (or call a professional who can!)

Dealing with a Tripped Switch

Here are some reasons why your switch may trip:

• A faulty emersion heater
• A faulty appliance
• A faulty connection on the appliance lead
• Too many electrical appliances used at once on the same circuit

If you suspect that you are dealing with a tripped switch, your first instinct will be to run to your trip switch and fuse box. However, in order to keep safety on your side, it is important that you do a couple of things first.

1. If you find yourself in darkness, you need to locate a light source for yourself.
2. Check the safety of all household members, including pets. Ensure that everyone has adequate light and that they are able to remain calm for the duration of the outage.
3. Before dealing with fuses, you should travel through your home turning off all switches for appliances and lights. In situations where you are unsure of whether an appliance is off or not, you should unplug it to be safe.

Now you can head for the box. When you look at the box, you should see that each of the switches relates to a particular section of your home. When any of these switches are flicked off, the corresponding area of the home will be without power. Locating a switch that is in the off position could be the source of your problem. If this is the case, flick the switch back on and return to the corresponding area of the home. Once you are in the right room, start plugging in and turning on all of your usual electrical appliances, one at a time. If the power goes again, then you will know which appliance is the culprit.

How to Change a Fuse in a Plug

Sometimes when just one appliance stops working, the problem can be a blown fuse in the plug. To solve this problem follow these steps:

1. Unplug the item and unscrew the back of the plug using a screwdriver.
2. Locate the three different coloured wires coming into the plug and the fuse.
3. Unscrew the screw that holds in the fuse.
4. Remove the fuse and replace it with a new one that is of the IDENTICAL type to the one removed.
5. Screw the fuse back in and return the wires to their correct position.
6. Screw the back onto the plug.

Electrical Dangers

Home electrics are not always the safest place to begin do-it-yourself work. Working with your home electrics can be dangerous, especially if you are not experienced in the area. One of the most common dangers is that of electric shock. Dealing with a shock-victim requires quick action and knowing how to keep you safe. The most important thing is that you should never touch a shock victim. It is possible that their body is still carrying the charge, which means that you could be electrocuted by the contact. Instead, call for emergency assistance immediately and turn off the main power to the house to prevent any further incidences.