Unexpected Outages
Unexpected Outages | Generators | Electrical | Old Fort
When the power flickers off in Old Fort, this page becomes your live pulse on the grid. It streams up-to-the-minute details straight from HEP’s field crews—showing which streets are affected, how many customers are in the dark, and the estimated time until lights return. Clear color-coded maps, concise status badges, and a refresh-on-tap dashboard make it easy to see whether your neighborhood is part of the outage or safely online.
Beyond the outage feed, you’ll find practical tips for staying comfortable and connected, including safety guidelines for home backup systems and quick links to report new disruptions. Whether you’re checking restoration progress from your phone or planning ahead with portable generators, this hub keeps Old Fort residents informed, prepared, and one step ahead of the unexpected.
FAQs
What should I do first when the power goes out unexpectedly in Old Fort?
First, check whether the outage is isolated to your property by looking for streetlights or asking a neighbor. If the entire area is dark, report the outage to Duke Energy Progress at 800-419-6356. Turn off or unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from voltage spikes when power is restored, and switch on battery-operated lights for safety. If you own a standby or portable generator, follow the manufacturer’s start-up procedures and make sure the unit is connected through a transfer switch or properly rated extension cords.
How quickly can you deliver and install a standby generator during an unexpected outage?
While we stock a number of common generator models in our Old Fort warehouse, exact lead times depend on demand, weather conditions, and unit size. For portable generators we can often provide same-day delivery and setup. For whole-home standby units, temporary portable power can usually be installed within a few hours, and a fully-permitted permanent installation normally takes 24–72 hours once the utility and inspection departments approve. We offer 24/7 dispatch and prioritize medically vulnerable customers, critical infrastructure, and businesses that handle perishable goods.
What size generator do I need to run essential systems in my Old Fort home or business?
Start by listing the equipment you must keep running—refrigerator, HVAC blower, sump pump, lights, well pump, security systems, or point-of-sale terminals. Add the starting (surge) wattage for motor-driven items and the running wattage for everything else. Most homes in McDowell County can cover critical loads with 7–11 kW, while larger residences or small businesses often require 14–22 kW. We offer free load-analysis visits in Old Fort to calculate exact requirements and recommend either a portable, manual-transfer setup or a fully automatic standby solution.
Are portable generators safe to use during prolonged outages?
Yes—if you operate them correctly. Always place the unit outdoors at least 20 ft from doors, windows, or vents to avoid carbon-monoxide poisoning. Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords or a professionally installed generator inlet and transfer switch. Keep the generator dry and on a level surface, refuel only when the engine is cool, and perform oil checks every 8–12 hours of run time. Never back-feed a house by plugging a generator into a wall outlet; this endangers line crews and violates local code.
How often should my generator be serviced to ensure reliability during unexpected outages?
For air-cooled standby units, schedule professional maintenance once a year or every 200 hours—whichever comes first. Liquid-cooled commercial sets generally need service every 6 months or 250 hours. Service includes oil and filter changes, spark-plug replacement, valve adjustments, fuel-system inspection, and firmware updates on newer models. Between visits, operate the generator under load at least 20 minutes each month in Old Fort’s temperate climate to keep seals lubricated and batteries charged.
Do you offer emergency 24/7 repair services for generators in Old Fort?
Yes. Our on-call technicians are available around the clock, including weekends and holidays. We carry common parts for Generac, Kohler, Cummins, Briggs & Stratton, and Honda units. Typical response time inside the Old Fort town limits is 60–90 minutes, and we extend coverage throughout McDowell County. We also provide temporary rental generators if your equipment requires shop repairs that take longer than four hours.