Lights flicker when there is a sudden change in the power level. It is quite infrequent, but it can happen a lot during a strong storm. In some instances, lights flicker quite often when a large load such as an air conditioner, elevator or a local portable heater kicks on. If that is the case, it is advisable to contact a licensed electrician to check the circuits and rewire if necessary.

A lot of disturbances in the electric system are temporary by nature (such as lightning). CPS Energy has electric relays that automatically detect these outages and then restore power automatically.

The only way that CPS Energy can know that your lights are off is if you have called in and reported it. Sometimes there can be multiple outages on the same circuit due to multiple problems. Some people assume that since a neighbor has called in that they do not need to call in. CPS Energy could end up fixing service to other residences and not know that you have an outage also due to a different problem. It is important that you call in and let us know you are out.

Outages are most often caused by trees (especially during storms, high winds and ice storms), cars hitting utility poles, wildlife touching high voltage wires, or problems with utility equipment. It is recommended that you keep flash lights handy. You might also want to keep a phone that does not require utility power (a cell phone or hard-wired type) so you can keep in communication during power outages.

CPS Energy tries to restore service as quickly as possible. Sometimes during major storms our resources are stretched to their limits. Sometimes there can be multiple outages on the same circuit due to multiple problems. CPS Energy restores problems affecting a large number of customers first. In some cases, CPS Energy may end up fixing service to other residences and not your problem. It is a good idea to call back after four hours if you service is still off.

Some smoke alarms are powered by AC (alternating current) and use a battery back up. When these units lose power momentarily they may chirp several times to inform you they are on back up power or are returning to main power. For more information, contact the manufacturer’s documentation on your type of alarm.