Power trouble

Recognizing a power disturbance

When your digital clock flashes, it may be signaling a split-second power disturbance — one that used to go unnoticed. Today's electronic devices are more sensitive than the simple electrical devices of the past.

If your computer has lost data, your TV image or computer screen shrinks, or the clocks on your VCR, microwave oven or stove have lost their programming, you may be experiencing a power disturbance.

Sources of power disturbance

In your home or business — You may be surprised to learn that many of these power disturbances — about 80% — originate within your home or business.

For example, a brief reduction or increase in voltage can occur when large appliances such as air conditioners, photocopiers, power tools, refrigerators, washing machines, furnaces and some fluorescent light ballasts are powered on or off. This can sometimes create havoc with your computer equipment or TV, and may also make your lights flicker. The problem can be compounded when certain circuits in your office are overloaded, or if the grounding is inadequate.

On the utility system — Utility electric systems are subject to a number of external conditions that can cause power line disturbances. Some of the most common are:

lightning, wind and other weather-related conditions
switching activity on the utility system
vehicular accidents involving utility poles or above-ground equipment
cuts to underground electrical lines
damage to wires caused by trees
animals making contact with power lines
equipment malfunctions
vandalism

The frequency and extent of disturbances you experience largely depend on weather conditions, and your proximity to possible disturbance sources on the utility system.

SaskPower employs protective devices to help protect the utility system and minimize the possibility of extended service interruptions at your home or business. If the fault is only temporary, the circuit breakers protecting the system will reclose automatically and restore power quickly.