Leaving appliances on during a power failure can potentially cause various types of damage, both to the appliances themselves and to other electrical systems in your home. Here are some of the risks and reasons why it's generally advised to unplug appliances during a power outage:
Power Surges: When the power is restored after an outage, there is a possibility of power surges or spikes. These sudden increases in voltage can be harmful to electronic devices and appliances. If appliances are left plugged in, they may be exposed to these power surges, leading to damage or even complete failure of the devices.
Overloading Circuits: Power restoration can cause a high demand for electricity as appliances, and other devices start to turn on simultaneously. If many devices are plugged in and operating at once, it can overload circuits, leading to tripped breakers or blown fuses.
Fire Hazard: Faulty wiring or damaged appliances can be a potential fire hazard, especially during power fluctuations or power surges. Unplugging appliances reduces the risk of electrical fires caused by sudden power restoration or fluctuations.
Appliance Damage: Certain appliances, especially those with delicate electronic components, may not handle power outages and restorations well. For example, computers, TVs, and other sensitive electronics could experience issues with their internal circuits or components if exposed to sudden power interruptions.
Refrigerator and Freezer Concerns: During a power outage, it's essential to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain the temperature inside. If the power comes back on and the compressor kicks in while the doors are open, the appliance may have to work extra hard to cool down, potentially leading to damage to the compressor or decreased lifespan of the appliance.
To prevent potential damage and hazards, it's generally recommended to unplug non-essential appliances and electronics during a power outage. Leave only critical appliances like refrigerators or freezers connected, and when the power is restored, wait for a few minutes before reconnecting and turning on other appliances to allow for stable power flow. Additionally, using surge protectors or whole-house surge protectors can offer some protection against power surges during power restoration.