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A SIMPLE GUIDE FORTroubleshooting
Power Failures

Fairfax, Loudoun, Arlington, and Prince William Counties.

A SIMPLE GUIDE FORTroubleshooting
Power Failures

Fairfax, Loudoun, Arlington, and Prince William Counties.

Troubleshooting Power Failures

Step: 1

Check for a Localized Issue

Inspect Lights and Appliances: Determine if the power failure affects the entire house or just specific lights or appliances.
Try Different Outlets: Plug a small appliance or lamp into different outlets to check if the issue is isolated to one area.

Step: 2

Check for a Localized Issue

Check Circuit Breakers: Look for any tripped breakers in your electrical panel. A tripped breaker will typically be in the “off” position or in between. Flip it entirely to the “off” position and then back to “on.”
Examine Fuses: If your home has a fuse box instead of circuit breakers, check for any blown fuses. A blown fuse may appear discolored or have a visible break in the metal filament.

Step: 3

Check with Neighbors

Verify External Power Failure: If you can’t find an issue inside, ask your neighbors if they’re experiencing power outages as well. This can help determine if the problem is within your home or a wider electrical grid issue with Domion Power.

Step: 4

Investigate GFCI Outlets

Reset GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock. They can trip and cut off power. Locate GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and other wet areas, pressing the reset button on each.

Step: 5

Evaluate Main Power Switch

Main Power Switch: Check the main power switch in your electrical panel if the whole house is without power. Ensure it’s in the “on” position. Sometimes, this switch can trip and disconnect power to the entire house.

Step: 6

Report and Wait if It’s an External Issue

Contact Domion Power: If you’ve determined the outage extends beyond your home, contact your utility company. They can provide information on the outage scope and estimated restoration time.

Step: 7

Use Power Safely

Unplug Appliances: Unplug sensitive electronics and appliances to avoid damage from power surges when electricity is restored. Leave one light on so you’ll know when power is back.
Use Flashlights, Not Candles: Use flashlights instead of candles to minimize fire risks for illumination.

Step: 8

Consult a Professional

Hire an Electrician: If you suspect the issue is related to your home’s internal wiring or electrical system and you’ve been unable to resolve it, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. They can safely diagnose and repair home electrical issues.

GET HELP

Expand

WARNING

Safety Precautions

Never Touch Exposed Wires: Always prioritize safety by avoiding contact with exposed wires or attempting DIY repairs if unsure.
Water and Electricity: Be extra cautious in areas where water is present. Do not attempt electrical repairs in wet areas.

By following these steps, you can systematically troubleshoot power failures in your home, potentially identifying simple issues you can resolve yourself or determining when professional help is needed. Always prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to contact our professionals.

Expand

Troubleshooting Power Failures

Step: 1

Check for a Localized Issue

Inspect Lights and Appliances: Determine if the power failure affects the entire house or just specific lights or appliances.
Try Different Outlets: Plug a small appliance or lamp into different outlets to check if the issue is isolated to one area.

Step: 2

Check for a Localized Issue

Check Circuit Breakers: Look for any tripped breakers in your electrical panel. A tripped breaker will typically be in the “off” position or in between. Flip it entirely to the “off” position and then back to “on.”
Examine Fuses: If your home has a fuse box instead of circuit breakers, check for any blown fuses. A blown fuse may appear discolored or have a visible break in the metal filament.

Step: 3

Check with Neighbors

Verify External Power Failure: If you can’t find an issue inside, ask your neighbors if they’re experiencing power outages as well. This can help determine if the problem is within your home or a wider electrical grid issue with Domion Power.

Step: 4

Investigate GFCI Outlets

Reset GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock. They can trip and cut off power. Locate GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and other wet areas, pressing the reset button on each.

Step: 5

Evaluate Main Power Switch

Main Power Switch: Check the main power switch in your electrical panel if the whole house is without power. Ensure it’s in the “on” position. Sometimes, this switch can trip and disconnect power to the entire house.

Step: 6

Report and Wait if It’s an External Issue

Contact Domion Power: If you’ve determined the outage extends beyond your home, contact your utility company. They can provide information on the outage scope and estimated restoration time.

Step: 7

Use Power Safely

Unplug Appliances: Unplug sensitive electronics and appliances to avoid damage from power surges when electricity is restored. Leave one light on so you’ll know when power is back.
Use Flashlights, Not Candles: Use flashlights instead of candles to minimize fire risks for illumination.

Step: 8

Consult a Professional

Hire an Electrician: If you suspect the issue is related to your home’s internal wiring or electrical system and you’ve been unable to resolve it, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. They can safely diagnose and repair home electrical issues.

GET HELP

Expand

WARNING

Safety Precautions

Never Touch Exposed Wires: Always prioritize safety by avoiding contact with exposed wires or attempting DIY repairs if unsure.
Water and Electricity: Be extra cautious in areas where water is present. Do not attempt electrical repairs in wet areas.

Expand

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Servicing Fairfax, Loudoun, Arlington, and Prince William CountiesWE ARE MASTER ELECTRICIANS

At our company, we only bring on board the best of the best: Master Electricians who have got all the right stuff. They're insured, bonded, and certified in Virginia, so you know they're the real deal. We're all about making sure your electrical needs are taken care of in the best possible way, and that means following Virginia's electrical code to a tee. No shortcuts, no compromises. We've got you covered!