How to Stay Cool During a Summer Power Outage in Virginia

If the power goes out in your Chesapeake, VA home, indoor temperatures can climb quickly, creating a potentially dangerous situation. Extreme heat is more than just uncomfortable. When indoor temperatures rise above 85°F, the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke increases, especially for older adults, young children, and people with underlying health conditions.

In severe cases, indoor temperatures can exceed 100°F within hours, putting everyone in the home at risk. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to stay as cool as possible until the power is restored. Read on for tips from our cooling service team to manage any summer outage.

Causes of Power Outages in Virginia

There are several reasons why the power may go out in your home. Virginia experiences summer coastal storms, thunderstorms, and strong winds. This can result in power outages caused by damaged power lines. It’s also common for grids to become overloaded during heat waves. People rely on their AC units heavily to keep their homes cool, which can increase energy demand in the area. There may even be rolling blackouts as power companies try to keep up with the demand.

Maximize Natural Ventilation

If the power is out for an extended period, use natural ventilation to help cool your home. Open windows and doors during the late evening or early morning, when outdoor temperatures are lower, to let in cooler air and release built-up heat. Be sure to close them again before temperatures begin to rise for the day.

Keep shades drawn and blinds closed to block out the sun’s heat. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and stay well-hydrated. Wetting a towel and using it to bring down your body temperature during the hottest hours can also be helpful.

Have an Emergency Cooling Plan

Don’t wait until the power goes out to decide how to stay safe and cool. Prepare an emergency cooling plan so you can act quickly when the temperature rises indoors. Identify the coolest areas in your home. Typically, basements are most comfortable because they’re partially underground and naturally insulated.

Stock up on essentials like bottled water, battery-operated fans, cooling towels, flashlights, and extra batteries. Consider filling your bathtub beforehand if a significant storm is in the forecast. This water can be used to flush toilets if water service is disrupted, especially in homes with well systems. Having these items and plans in place can make a significant difference during a summer outage.

Invest in a Backup Generator

When we install a backup generator, we typically place it outside the home on a concrete pad, similar to where you’d place an air conditioning unit. It’s connected to your home’s electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch, which monitors your power supply. If the power goes out, the generator starts automatically, usually within seconds, supplying electricity to your home.

Most whole-home generators in Virginia run on natural gas, which means you won’t have to store fuel like you would with a portable generator. If your home already has access to natural gas, the generator can draw directly from that supply, providing continuous power without refueling.

Compared to portable units, whole-home generators are far safer, easier to operate, and powerful enough to keep your entire home running. That includes your air conditioning, refrigerator, and lights. A backup generator can also be a lifesaver if a household member relies on medical equipment. It will provide uninterrupted power for this equipment, offering peace of mind when it matters most.

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance and Repairs

If you already have a backup generator, ensure it is routinely inspected and tested. Annual maintenance gives you the confidence that it’s ready to run when the power goes out. During a typical visit, our technicians check the fuel lines, inspect electrical connections, change the oil and filters, and test the automatic transfer switch.

We also run the generator to ensure it starts properly and carries a load. These visits help catch minor issues before they become major problems and ensure you are ready, no matter what Virginia’s summer weather brings.

Contact Your Local Experts

At Simmons Heating & Cooling, we have served the residents of Chesapeake and the surrounding areas since 1964. We can install, repair, and maintain ACs with expert care. Our team also installs backup generators to meet your needs and budget.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.