Michigan winters are a true test of a home’s resilience. Between heavy lake-effect snow and freezing ice storms, the strain on our local power grid and residential electrical systems can be significant. When the lights flicker or the power goes out during a blizzard, the situation can quickly escalate from an inconvenience to a safety concern.
At Hi-Tech Electric Company, we provide 24/7 emergency electrical services. However, before you pick up the phone to call an emergency electrician, there are several safety protocols and troubleshooting steps every Michigan homeowner should follow to protect their property and determine the severity of the issue.
Assess the Scope of the Outage
The first step is to determine if the problem is isolated to your home or part of a wider utility failure. Check your neighborhood; if the streetlights are dark and your neighbors are also without power, the issue likely lies with the utility provider. In this case, you should contact your local energy company rather than an electrician. If your home is the only one affected, the issue is likely internal, such as a tripped main breaker or a fault in your electrical panel.
Perform a Safe Panel Inspection
If you suspect an internal issue, navigate to your electrical panel with a flashlight. Do not attempt to reset breakers if you notice a burning smell, see scorch marks, or hear loud buzzing coming from the box. These are signs of a serious electrical fault that requires immediate professional intervention.
If the panel appears clear of damage, check for tripped breakers. Reset them once. If the breaker immediately trips again, do not force it. This indicates a "hard fault" or a short circuit that could lead to an electrical fire if ignored.
Protect Your Sensitive Electronics
Voltage surges often occur when power is being restored or when lines are damaged by falling ice and branches. To protect your appliances, unplug sensitive electronics like computers, televisions, and kitchen appliances. Leaving one light switched "on" is a professional recommendation, as it provides a clear visual signal that power has been successfully restored without risking a surge to your more expensive equipment.
Generator Safety Protocols
For those using portable generators during a storm, safety is paramount. Never operate a generator inside a garage, basement, or any enclosed space due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Furthermore, avoid "backfeeding"—the dangerous practice of plugging a generator into a wall outlet to power the whole house. This can energize outside power lines, putting utility repair workers at risk of electrocution.
When to Call the Professionals
While many minor issues can wait until business hours, certain "red flags" demand an immediate response from a licensed master electrician. You should call for emergency service if:
You see sparks or smoke from outlets or the breaker panel.
There is standing water in your basement near electrical equipment.
An electrical fire has occurred (after calling 911).
Your home has a partial power loss (brownout), which can damage motor-driven appliances like your furnace or refrigerator.
Steadfast Support for Michigan Homeowners
At Hi-Tech Electric Company, we have been providing Portage, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren County residents with reliable electrical solutions since 1985. Our team, led by a licensed Master Electrician, is committed to maintaining excellent safety ratings and providing responsive service when you need it most. Whether you need a system inspection after a storm or an emergency repair, we are ready to help.
To request a free estimate or emergency assistance, contact Hi-Tech Electric Company at (269) 448-1599 today.