Weathering the Storm: What to Do When the Power Goes Out

Weathering the Storm: What to Do When the Power Goes Out

Power outages are more common than ever, with severe weather events and other disruptions impacting electrical grids across the country. When the power goes out, it can be unsettling, especially in extreme temperatures. One common misconception among solar panel users is that their system will continue to work during an outage. Unfortunately, solar panels typically won’t provide power without the right backup system in place. Here’s why, and some practical tips to help you stay cool, comfortable, and safe when the lights go out.

Why Solar Panels Don’t Work During a Power Outage

Solar panels rely on sunlight to generate electricity, but what many people don’t realize is that they are connected to the local electrical grid. When the grid goes down, most solar panel systems automatically shut off as a safety measure. This is to prevent any electricity from flowing into the grid while utility workers are making repairs, which could pose a serious risk to their safety.

However, there is a solution if you want to keep the power flowing during an outage. Solar batteries can be integrated into your solar panel system to store energy for use when the grid is down. These batteries allow you to power essential appliances, lights, and devices even when the rest of the neighborhood is dark. If you're interested in learning more about how a solar battery could provide power backup during an outage, check out the PosiGen Battery Page for more information.

Without a battery backup, your solar system won’t function during an outage, which is why it's important to be prepared for these situations. Below are some tips to help you navigate a power outage and stay cool, comfortable, and safe.

1. Block the Heat with Thermal Curtains

In the heat of summer, staying cool becomes a top priority during a power outage. One simple yet effective way to reduce the temperature inside your home is by using thermal curtains. These curtains are designed to block out sunlight and keep rooms cooler by preventing heat from entering. If you don’t already have them, you can purchase thermal curtains relatively inexpensively, and they make a significant difference in keeping your home comfortable, especially when the air conditioning isn’t working.

2. Use Rechargeable Emergency LED Light Bulbs

Lighting is a major concern during a power outage, and instead of relying on candles or flashlights, consider rechargeable emergency LED light bulbs. These bulbs can be charged ahead of time and used for up to five hours when the power goes out. Unlike candles, they don’t pose a fire hazard, and they’re much more convenient than constantly searching for batteries. For example, these emergency rechargeable LED light bulbs offer reliable light when you need it most, allowing you to safely move around your home in the dark.

3. Stay Cool with Battery-Operated Fans

If you’re dealing with a power outage during hot weather, staying cool is crucial. Battery-operated fans can provide much-needed relief, and some models even come with extra features like phone charging capabilities. These fans, such as this one, are a great tool to have on hand because they offer a portable way to cool off while also keeping your phone charged in case you need to communicate or check updates during an extended outage.

4. Preserve Perishable Food with a High-Quality Cooler

Keeping your food from spoiling is another key concern during a power outage. If you expect the outage to last several hours or even days, a high-quality cooler that can hold ice for an extended period will help you preserve perishable food. Here are a few options under $100 that can keep your essentials cold for days:

• Igloo BMX Hard Cooler – This durable cooler is designed to hold ice for up to four days, making it a great choice for long power outages.
• Coleman Portable Rolling Cooler, 50 Quart Xtreme 5 Day Cooler – With a 50-quart capacity and wheels for easy transport, this cooler can hold ice for up to five days.
• Igloo Marine Ultra Cooler, White, 30 Qt – This affordable option is compact but efficient, perfect for storing perishable food during a short outage.

These coolers are excellent investments, not just for power outages but also for camping trips, tailgating, or any outdoor adventure where you need to keep food and drinks cold.

5. Safely Use a Generator

If you have a generator to power your home during a blackout, make sure to follow safety guidelines closely. Generators can emit harmful carbon monoxide gas, so it’s critical to place the generator at least 20 feet away from your home and your neighbors' homes. Never use a generator indoors or in a garage, even if the door is open. Keep it outside, and ensure it has proper ventilation. Following these guidelines will help you avoid the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning during an outage.

6. Charge Devices and Stay Informed

Keeping your phone and other essential devices charged is important during a power outage, especially if you need to communicate or access emergency information. Make sure to charge your devices ahead of time if you suspect a storm or outage is coming. For ongoing power, consider investing in portable chargers or battery-operated fans with USB ports to keep your devices running.

In addition to charging devices, stay informed by following local news updates and weather reports. Use a battery-powered radio if your phone dies, or ensure that you have backup methods for staying connected to emergency services. For more tips on storm preparedness and staying safe, visit our PosiGen Storm Alert Page, which offers guidance on how to stay protected during severe weather.

7. Store Water and Non-Perishable Food

Always keep an emergency supply of water and non-perishable food on hand for power outages. Aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day, and stock up on canned or dried foods that don’t require refrigeration. Having a stash of these essentials can help you stay nourished and hydrated during longer outages.

8. Prep for Hurricane Season the Eco-Friendly Way

If you live in a region prone to hurricanes, you might also want to take steps to prepare your home for hurricane season while keeping sustainability in mind. Our Sustainable Hurricane Prep Guide offers eco-friendly ways to ready your home, like installing energy-efficient hurricane shutters and using solar-powered chargers. Being prepared for both power outages and hurricanes will help ensure you and your family stay safe through any storm.

Bonus tip: Prepare for Winter Power Outages

Power outages aren’t limited to the summer months. Winter storms can also cause disruptions, making it important to be prepared for cold weather outages as well. If you want to be ready for winter power cuts, check out our Winter Weather Safety Advice blog, which includes tips on staying warm and safe when the power goes out in the colder months.

Conclusion

Power outages can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can stay safe and comfortable until the power is restored. Remember, solar panels won’t work during an outage unless you have a battery backup system installed. If you’re interested in learning more about solar batteries and how they can keep your home powered during outages, take a look at PosiGen’s Battery Page for detailed information.

By following the tips outlined in this blog—using thermal curtains, rechargeable LED light bulbs, battery-operated fans, and high-quality coolers—you can ensure that you and your family stay cool, prepared, and safe during a power outage. Don’t forget to prioritize safety if you’re using a generator, and always keep your devices charged for communication and emergency updates.

To stay informed about storm safety and power outages, visit our Storm Alert Page for real-time information and advice.