If you’ve lived in Oregon in the past year, you know that no matter what we do and what precautions are taken, sometimes, the power just goes out. Thanks to the widespread blackouts on the west coast in 2020, extreme heat is one of the better-known causes of power outages: But they aren’t the only common cause.
Here are some of the most common causes of power outages in the United States:
1. Human Error and Public Damage
One major reason for power loss is human error. This can be anything from a mistake made on the planning and infrastructure side of the grid to activity by the public that impacts power equipment. Some examples include:
- Vehicle accidents and collisions
- Poorly planned or unsafe digging and construction
- Balloons from outdoor parties
2. Trees and Vegetation
Interference from tree limbs and other vegetation is another main cause of power failure and outages. High winds can cause trees and limbs to fall on power lines, bringing those lines to the ground or breaking the lines and poles completely.
3. Animals
One of the most common and most surprising causes of power outages? Animals. Wildlife such as birds, squirrels, raccoons, and more can cause power outages when they climb on or inside equipment. Most electrical equipment comes equipped with automatic shutdowns that can be triggered for safety purposes (such as when animals create contact between components).
4. Weather
Lightning strikes, extreme heat, snowstorms, and wildfires can all cause power outages or create the need for rolling blackouts in our area.
5. Rolling Blackouts or Public Safety Power Shutoffs
Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) and rolling blackouts are two names for the same thing — when the utility company decides to shut power off to a certain area during high-risk conditions. Sometimes these power outages can occur on a smaller scal
e to facilitate planned maintenance on the grid.
As you can see, there are many things that could cause a power outage in our area — some planned and others unplanned. With unplanned or accidental power outages come power surges, which can have a devastating effect on your home and expensive appliances. Contact A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical today to learn how we can help you protect your home with whole-home surge protection! (503) 694-3396
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A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical came recommended from a friend who is a current inspector. I've used them for years for furnace and AC maintenance. Their customer service is excellent—helpful, friendly, and persistent in scheduling my maintenance. I appreciate that they've never pushed to replace my old furnace but instead helped me decide when to repair or replace without being pushy about sales. Finding trustworthy repair folks is hard, and I highly recommend them. You won't be disappointed.
A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical goes above and beyond to take care of their customers. I've been a customer for years and am impressed with the technicians and office staff. The fact that this is a family business is also a plus. Thank you.
A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical did a wonderful job. They were on time, wore shoe coverings, and worked diligently. They replaced our air filter and an electrical part under warranty, explaining everything clearly. The work was clean and professional, and the team was congenial and pleasant.
Everyone we’ve dealt with has been polite, positive, and very courteous. A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical quickly replaced our furnace during the coldest part of a snowy winter. Other companies couldn’t get out for 1-2 weeks, but A-TEMP assessed it the same day and replaced it in 2 days. Can’t say enough great things about this company!
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Family is built into our company name. For over 50 years, our family-owned & operated HVAC business has taken care of our neighbors. We focus on care for our team so they can focus on care for our customers.
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