How to check for a power cut in your area

When the lights go out, many people instinctively reach for their energy supplier's number. But for a power cut, that call won't always get you far. Your energy supplier handles your billing, but a different company manages the electricity network and restores power. This guide cuts through the confusion, showing you exactly how to check for a power cut in your area and who to contact for help.

Understanding who to contact during a power cut is key to getting help quickly. While your Distribution Network Operator handles outages, Fuse Energy is here to make managing your energy account simple and transparent. Click here to see how easy it is to switch to a modern energy supplier.

Understanding power cuts: supplier vs network operator

A power cut can be unsettling, but knowing who does what can make all the difference. It is a common pitfall to call your energy supplier, but they do not manage the physical electricity network.

What causes a power cut?

Power cuts can happen for various reasons. Sometimes, severe weather conditions like storms or heavy snow can damage overhead power lines or underground cables. Equipment failure, such as issues with transformers or substations, can also lead to outages. Less commonly, planned maintenance work by your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) might require a temporary shutdown, though these are usually communicated in advance.

The role of your energy supplier

Your energy supplier, like Fuse Energy, manages your billing, tariffs, and customer service for the energy you consume. They are your point of contact for account queries, meter readings, and payments. However, they do not own or maintain the physical electricity cables and infrastructure that deliver power to your home. A quick way to see if a power cut is your supplier's job to fix, is to check if your electricity meter screen is on. If it is, then it's likely your supplier's responsibility. If it's off, however, that means electricity isn't reaching the meter, indicating an issue with the infrastructure providing electricity to your home or area. If your neighbours also don't have power, it's likely a DNO issue.

The role of your DNO

DNO are the companies responsible for maintaining the electricity network in your region. This includes the pylons, substations, and cables that bring electricity from the national transmission network to your property. If you experience a power cut, it is your DNO who is responsible for identifying the fault, carrying out repairs, and restoring your power.

How to check for a power cut in your area

Knowing how to check for a power cut in your area can save you time and help you get accurate information quickly.

Is the power cut only affecting your property?

Before contacting anyone, quickly check if the power cut is isolated to your home. Look outside to see if your neighbours' lights are off, or if streetlights are out. If your neighbours have power, the issue might be specific to your property, such as a tripped fuse or a fault with your internal wiring. In this case, you might need to contact a qualified electrician.

Using the 105 national helpline

The 105 helpline is the national, free number to report power cuts and get updates. It connects you directly to your local DNO, no matter where you are in Great Britain. This service is available 24/7 and is the quickest way to report an outage or check for known issues in your area.

Finding your local DNO and their online tools

While 105 connects you automatically, you can also find your local DNO directly. The Energy Networks Association (ENA) website has a postcode lookup tool that will tell you which DNO operates in your area. Most DNOs also have their own websites with online power cut maps and reporting tools, allowing you to check for updates or report an outage online.

Checking for gas supply issues

It is important to distinguish between an electricity power cut and a gas supply issue. If you have no gas supply, this is handled by a different network operator - your Gas Network Operator. If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, you should immediately call the national gas emergency helpline on 0800 111 999. Do not use electrical switches or appliances if you suspect a gas leak.

What to do during a power cut

Once you have established there is a power cut in your area, taking a few practical steps can ensure your safety and minimise disruption.

Safety first: essential precautions

• Turn off appliances: Switch off or unplug sensitive electrical equipment to prevent damage when power is restored.
• Keep fridge/freezer doors closed: This helps to keep food cold for longer.
• Use torches for light: Keep battery-powered torches or wind-up lanterns handy.
• Check on vulnerable neighbours: If safe to do so, ensure elderly or vulnerable neighbours are aware and safe.

Keeping warm and preserving food

During a prolonged power cut, especially in colder months, keeping warm is crucial. Dress in layers, use blankets, and gather in one room if possible. For food, a full freezer can keep food frozen for about 48 hours, while a half-full one lasts around 24 hours. Avoid opening doors unnecessarily.

Communication and updates

Keep your mobile phone charged, or have a power bank ready, to stay informed. Your DNO will provide updates via 105, their website, or social media channels. They may also offer estimated restoration times, though these can change depending on the complexity of the fault.

After the power cut: next steps and support

Once your power is back on, there are a few things to consider, from checking your appliances to understanding your rights.

When power is restored

When the power returns, gradually switch on your appliances to avoid overloading the system. Check your clocks and timers, and reset any devices that might have lost their settings. If any appliances seem damaged, contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair person.

The Priority Services Register

The Priority Services Register (PSR) offers extra support to vulnerable customers during power cuts and other energy-related issues. This free service is available to those who are of pensionable age, disabled, have long-term health conditions, or have young children. Registering ensures you receive priority updates and support from your DNO and energy supplier during an outage. You can sign up through your energy supplier.

Fuse Energy helps demystify the energy system by providing clear, authoritative guidance on how to handle power cuts, even though it is not directly responsible for network operations. We believe in transparent, no-BS advice to empower you.

Managing your home's energy should be straightforward, even when things go wrong. Fuse Energy offers clear pricing, real-time usage data through our app, and 24/7 human customer support to help you stay in control. Switching to Fuse is quick and easy, so you can focus on what matters most.

Ready for a simpler energy experience? Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. You can also learn more about our mission to deliver the cheapest, cleanest energy possible by clicking here.