All of us hate brownouts especially during nighttime. We hate the thought of finding our way around our house when it’s dark for we might bump into something or damage things inside our house. We usually use candles and flashlights to light our room and move around. But they aren’t enough to dissolve our worries and feel contented because we can’t do our work when there’s no power and it is irritating to stay in a hot room. Aside from that, we also worry about what might possibly happen to our appliances when there’s a power surge when electric supply returns. Can brownout damage our appliances? How about the candles can they cause accident or harm us? Definitely, yes!
As defined by Wkipedia, brownout refers to a drop in voltage in an electrical power supply, so named because it typically causes lights to dim. Power suppliers sometimes notify us of any scheduled brownout and this can be helpful so we can prepare before brownout occurs. Below are some tips we can follow before and during a brownout to lessen worries and make our family and home safe.
1.) Protect your computer
Buy a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for your computer so that in case of power outage you can still save your files or documents you’re working on. UPS can help you save your files since it can extend power for about 5 to 15 minutes right after a brownout.
2.) Turn off lights and appliances
During brownout, make sure to unplug all electrical appliances and lights. You can leave one light on so you will know if power returned. When power returns, irregular power supply enters our outlets and this can cause possible damage to our appliance. It might not be totally destroyed but in time the effect will be more noticeable and your appliances will not anymore function well.
3.) Avoid using candles
As much as possible, avoid using candles because candles can cause fire when left inside a room unnoticed especially at nighttime when most of us are asleep. When you use a candle, make sure the candle holder can hold the candle well so it won’t fall. Consider using a flashlight instead of candles or buy a rechargeable lamp.
4.) Store foods that do not easily spoil
Buy and store foods that do not need to be refrigerated or are not easily spoiled like canned goods, noodles, cereals, juices and biscuits. Storing food should also be done not only to prepare for a brownout but also in case of unexpected calamities like hurricane.
5.) Prepare things that can help you cool down
Since it’s usually hot during brownouts, you should wear thin clothes and prepare your fan or other objects you can use to produce air. Furthermore, drink lots of water so you will not be dehydrated from too much heat.
These tips are only some of the things you should do to prepare for a brownout and how to make life easier during a brownout. Make it a point to follow these simple yet essential tips so you will be less irritated and worried in the event of a brownout.
