Lights Out: Load Shedding Tips To Prevent Potential Loss

They say that when it rains it pours, and such is the case this winter, as the country grapples not only with the dreaded third wave of Covid-19 and protests but also with intermittent power outages, which look set to continue for the remainder of the winter season.

Over and above load shedding, inclement weather in parts of the country has also triggered lengthy power outages, leaving many South Africans in the dark for extended periods during the chilliest part of the year.

While many have become accustomed to the inconvenience of intermittent blackouts, these episodes can also have an enormous financial impact, particularly at a time when many are working from home and dependent on a regular power supply.

Not only can lengthy outages compromise output, but unexpected power surges can also cause damage to expensive electrical equipment. So how do you avoid unnecessary financial losses during this highly volatile and unpredictable period? Here are a few key tips to bear in mind:

Keep sensitive devices switched off

It’s not the power going off, but rather its reappearance that can be most damaging for electrical appliances. While some devices like laptops and TVs come complete with surge protectors, others can suffer severe damage in the event of a power surge. As such, it’s best to leave any sensitive devices unplugged until a few minutes after the power returns, allowing the current some time to stabilise. You might want to consider setting up your appliances on multi-plug extension leads, so as to isolate them easily with a single flick of a switch.

Going off the grid

If you’re considering installing a generator or a UPS system to circumvent regular outages, you’d be well advised to explore insurance options for said device. While you might assume that these costly external power sources are automatically covered in your home contents insurance policy, this is by no means standard practice, so make sure to check your policy carefully before making potentially costly assumptions.

Remember that your power source needs to be fully compliant if you want to avoid having claims rejected, so make sure to ask for a certificate of compliance from your electrician, and to carefully follow all usage and safety compliance instructions. Also, remember that your insurance will not cover you in the event of neglect or poor maintenance. Store and operate your power sources correctly to avoid any potential damage.

Stay informed

If alternative power sources aren’t a financially feasible alternative, it’s vital that you remain cautious and alert during periods characterised by darkness. Keep tabs on announcements from Eskom and try to plan your days in advance based on your individual load shedding schedule. Explore potential load shedding and power surge insurance options, as unscheduled outages can also arise as a result of unexpected cable theft or substation outages.

Back things up

Given the unpredictable nature of power outages, it’s important to ensure that you’re armed with appropriate alternatives, particularly when it comes to your security. Power outages represent perfect opportunities for would-be criminals looking to capitalise on potentially vulnerable points of entry. As such, make sure that your alarm system is properly backed up and functional, and ensure that your cell phone remains sufficiently charged in case of emergency.

Keep backup batteries for electrically operated garage doors and gates to avoid potential inconveniences as a result of a power outage, and keep temporary lighting solutions like torches, gas lamps, and candles in accessible spots so that they’re easier to find in the dark.

Remember that while pre-emptive measures can go a long way towards preventing damage and loss, it’s still vital to ensure that you’re comprehensively covered in the event of power surges. As such, make sure to consult your existing insurance policy, or to contact your broker to confirm your level of cover.

When submitting a claim relating to a damaged item, it’s important that you don’t attempt to open or repair it unless you are qualified to do so. To ensure swift processing of your claims, make sure to submit the make and model numbers of damaged items, and to provide as much detail as possible in order to expedite the process and minimise losses.

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