Be Prepared for Spring Storm Power Outages

Spring weather in Virginia can be unpredictable. That’s why it’s important to always be prepared and always have a plan for your home before severe weather hits. Thunderstorms are what we usually see for severe weather in spring and with them can come lightning, tornadoes, and flooding. Is your home ready for the next severe storm or power outage? Here are a few things you can learn and do to make sure your family stays safe this spring.

Surge protectors

You’ve probably invested a lot of money into the electronics in your home. Televisions, computers, and other appliances can all be vulnerable to power surges during a spring thunderstorm. Having plug-in or whole house surge protectors installed can help reduce the chance of damage to your electronics. Bradley Mechanical can help you choose the right protection for your home and even professionally install it.

Generators

In the case of a power outage, a generator can be a lifesaver. It can provide the much-needed electricity to keep your refrigerator running, your lights on, and your television tuned in to receive vital weather updates. There are many different types of generators available depending on your power needs. If you just need a few lights and critical appliances available then a portable generator will suffice. However, if you require uninterrupted power then a whole house generator is what you need. Bradley Mechanical carries a variety of generator systems that can help protect your home in the event of a power outage.

Know your shutoffs.

Everything that feeds into your home has a way of being manually shut off. Make sure that everyone in your family knows how to shut off water, gas, and electricity in the event of a severe storm.

• The main shutoff valve for water is often located in the basement or crawlspace. It can also be located on the outside wall of a utility area.
• Newer homes with higher pressure gas systems usually have a main shutoff valve located near a furnace or water heater.
• Every home has an electrical service panel where circuit breakers for the entire house are kept. This panel is usually located in a garage, utility room or basement. Circuit breakers can be shut off individually or you can shut off power to them all by flipping the main breaker switch.

Create a home emergency kit.

Your home emergency kit should be able to sustain you for at least three days. It should include items like a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, a portable radio, drinking water, non-perishable food, and essential medications.

If you are interested in making your home more prepared for bad weather, give Bradley Mechanical a call at (804) 748-6728. We have certified plumbers, electricians, and HVAC experts ready to serve you and answer all your questions. Our team can help make your home ready for the next severe thunderstorm, flood or power outage. We’ve been keeping Richmond families safe and comfortable for over 50 years and it would be our pleasure to do the same for yours.