The Times Australia
The Times House and garden

.

What Are The Signs Of A Power Surge?

  • Written by NewsServices.com

Modern electricity is a miracle in many ways. It's enabled us to build the systems and frameworks that keep our society running, and is the centrepiece to delivering the conveniences we enjoy every day. But what happens when you get too much?

In this article, we'll explain power surges, their signs, and what they mean for you.

Understanding Power Surges

A 'power surge' is when the voltage supplied to an electrical device spikes for a very brief period of time. This can be caused by a number of things, including the following.

Bad weather: Lightning strikes are a common cause of power surges. The sudden release of electrical energy from the atmosphere can overload and damage nearby power lines and equipment.

Faulty wiring or equipment: Frayed or damaged wires can cause electrical sparks that lead to power surges. Similarly, malfunctioning electrical equipment can also cause surges.

Power grid problems: If the power grid that supplies your home or business experiences a sudden change in voltage, it can cause a power surge.

Power surges can result in damage to your electrical devices and equipment. In some cases, this damage can be severe enough to cause a fire.

Identifying The Signs Of A Power Surge

A key part of mitigating the impacts of a power surge is knowing how to identify one. Power surges can happen without you knowing, but there are some tell-tale signs to look out for. The following are just a few examples.

Lights Flickering Or Dimming

This is one of the most common signs of a power surge. If you notice your lights flickering or dimming, it could be an indication that the voltage supplied to your home is fluctuating.

Appliances Not Working Properly

Another common sign of a power surge is if your appliances suddenly stop working properly. This can be anything from your television not turning on, to your coffee maker not brewing correctly. If you notice any of your appliances acting up, it could be due to a power surge.

Electrical Shock

In some cases, you may actually feel a power surge. This is usually in the form of a mild electrical shock that you receive when you touch an electrical appliance or switch. If you experience this, it is definitely an indication that there is too much voltage running through your home's electrical system.

What To Do If You Experience A Power Surge

If you notice the signs and believe you are experiencing a power surge, the best thing to do is to shut off all of your electrical appliances and equipment. This will help to prevent further damage. Once you have shut off all of your appliances, you should contact your power company to report the problem. They will be able to investigate and determine if there is an issue with the power grid.

Power surges can be a nuisance, but if you are aware of the signs and know what to do if one occurs, they can be easily dealt with. By equipping yourself with the right knowledge, you can rest assured that you're prepared for anything.

Times Magazine

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Times Features

Prefab’s Second Life: Why Australia’s Backyard Boom Needs a Circular Makeover

The humble granny flat is being reimagined not just as a fix for housing shortages, but as a cornerstone of circular, factory-built architecture. But are our systems ready to s...

Melbourne’s Burglary Boom: Break-Ins Surge Nearly 25%

Victorian homeowners are being warned to act now, as rising break-ins and falling arrest rates paint a worrying picture for suburban safety. Melbourne residents are facing an ...

Exploring the Curriculum at a Modern Junior School in Melbourne

Key Highlights The curriculum at junior schools emphasises whole-person development, catering to children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. It ensures early year...

Distressed by all the bad news? Here’s how to stay informed but still look after yourself

If you’re feeling like the news is particularly bad at the moment, you’re not alone. But many of us can’t look away – and don’t want to. Engaging with news can help us make ...

The Role of Your GP in Creating a Chronic Disease Management Plan That Works

Living with a long-term condition, whether that is diabetes, asthma, arthritis or heart disease, means making hundreds of small decisions every day. You plan your diet against m...

Troubleshooting Flickering Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik Effectively addressing flickering lights in your home is more than just a matter of convenience; it's a pivotal aspect of both home safety and en...