Power outages are more than just an inconvenience—they can be costly and even dangerous. Whether caused by extreme weather, grid failures, or planned maintenance, losing power can impact your daily life, damage your property, and rack up unexpected expenses.
A power outage is a disruption in electricity supply to homes or businesses. It can be planned, such as Public Safety Power Shutdowns (PSPS) in high-risk fire areas, or unplanned due to hurricanes, thunderstorms, tornadoes, ice storms, or other natural disasters. Power outages can last anywhere from a few minutes to several days, depending on the cause and severity.How Much Does a Power Outage Cost?The cost of a power outage depends on its duration and your level of preparedness. Here are some common expenses homeowners may face:ExpenseApproximate CostReplacing spoiled food$200Emergency supplies$25 - $100One day of lost productivity$200Property damage$500 - $25,000Alternative housing for one night$150
Around $200 for a full fridge of groceries.When your power is out for over a day, perishable foods in your fridge and freezer will spoil. To minimize loss, keep the doors closed as much as possible—food in a fridge stays cold for about four hours, while a full freezer retains its temperature for 24-48 hours.Emergency SuppliesCost: $25 - $100, depending on what you need.Having emergency supplies on hand can help you weather a power outage more comfortably. Essentials include:
$200 (assuming $25/hour wage for an 8-hour workday).If you work from home or rely on the internet for income, a power outage can mean a direct loss of wages. For businesses, the losses can be even more severe, reaching thousands to millions of dollars per day.Property DamageCost: Ranges from $500 to $25,000.Outages can cause serious property damage. A power surge when electricity is restored can fry appliances and electronics. Severe weather-related outages can lead to flooding from failed sump pumps or frozen pipes bursting in winter.Alternative HousingCost: Around $150 per night.If extreme weather or extended outages make your home unlivable, you may need to stay in a hotel. Costs will vary based on location, length of stay, and availability.Are Power Outages Dangerous?Yes! Beyond financial loss, power outages pose health and safety risks:
Don’t wait for the next outage to hit—call Crossville Heating & Cooling today and get the fastest service in town!
Plumbing emergencies include water leaks, burst or damaged pipes, and sagging or discolored ceilings. They also cover low water pressure, overflowing toilets, and clogged drains. Other issues are water heater failure, gas leaks, and sewage backups.
These problems can cause a lot of water damage, health risks, and safety issues. They need quick action by a professional plumber.
A mini split heat pump is a versatile HVAC system. It heats and cools your home efficiently. It has an outdoor unit and indoor units connected by lines. This system lets you control the temperature in different areas without ducts.
It's important to fix plumbing problems fast to prevent water damage and mold growth. These issues can harm your home's structure and your family's health. Waiting can lead to expensive repairs later.
Mini split heat pumps move heat between indoor and outdoor units. In cold months, it takes heat from outside and brings it inside. In warm months, it does the opposite for cooling.
Look out for wet spots on floors or walls, discoloration, and sounds of running water. These signs mean you might have a serious water leak. Ignoring it can cause more damage, mold, and structural problems.
Mini splits are energy-efficient and offer zoned temperature control. They don't need ducts and can heat and cool your home with one system. They're great for homes without ducts or areas with uneven temperatures.
A burst pipe can spill hundreds of gallons of water quickly, damaging walls, floors, and furniture. It's often caused by freezing, corrosion, or high pressure. You need a professional plumber right away.
ENERGY STAR certified mini splits use up to 60% less energy than electric radiators. They also cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 4,500lbs over their life. This makes them a green choice for heating and cooling.
Sagging or discolored ceilings suggest a hidden water leak. This can lead to structural damage and mold growth. These signs mean water has been leaking behind walls or ceilings for a while.
Yes, new ENERGY STAR certified mini splits work well in cold climates. They have advanced compressors and refrigerants for better performance in low temperatures. So, they can keep your home warm even on freezing days.
Low water pressure is a problem if it affects many faucets or fixtures. It can be caused by a failing pressure regulator, clogged pipes, or municipal water issues. This needs quick action.
Mini splits let you control the temperature in each room. They don't heat or cool the whole house at once. By installing multiple indoor units, you can set different temperatures in different areas, saving energy and money.
Try using a plunger or turning off the water supply to the toilet. But if it keeps overflowing, call an emergency plumber. They can fix it before more damage happens.
Installing a mini split right is key for its performance. Place indoor units for good air flow and coverage. The outdoor unit should have clear airflow and be easy to reach for maintenance. Consider looks, access, and drainage when placing the outdoor unit.
A broken water heater is an emergency if it has gas leaks or could cause water damage. Signs include no hot water, strange noises, or leaks. Call a plumber if you notice these.
Look at energy efficiency, features, and brand reputation when picking a mini split. A professional HVAC contractor can help match the system to your home's needs for lasting efficiency.
