Brownout vs. Blackout

Dealing with a brownout or blackout at your Southlake home or business can be inconvenient, uncomfortable, and troubling.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), electricity customers experienced over seven hours of electric power interruptions in 2021. Don’t leave yourself vulnerable to a power outage or dip—be proactive and prepare.

Losing power during a brownout or blackout disrupts the daily lives of homeowners, rendering everything from your household appliances—like your oven, stove, microwave, washing machine, and dryer—to your lighting, heating, and cooling systems barely or completely non-functional.

As for Texas businesses, power outages or temporary disruptions can interrupt operations, halt productivity, and may contribute to data loss and the inability to serve customers or clients, underscoring the importance of reliable power infrastructure.

With a residential generator for your home or a commercial generator for your business, you can reduce some of the inconvenience of a power outage. Whether there is a brownout or blackout, a generator can significantly help by offering a backup source of power.

But first, it helps to understand the differences between a brownout and a blackout so you can prepare properly.

Generator Authority is here to answer all of your questions when it comes to power loss and installing a quality generator to counteract the effects. Our professionals can provide information and help you select the right make and model for your home or business. Let’s get started ensuring your safety and comfort today.

Understanding Brownouts and Blackouts

So what exactly is the difference between a brownout and a blackout?

Brownout: A brownout, also known as a voltage sag or a dip, is a temporary reduction in the electrical voltage supplied by the power grid. During a brownout, the voltage level drops below the standard range for a brief period. This reduction in voltage can result in dimming lights, slower appliance operation, and potential damage to sensitive electronic equipment.

Brownouts are often caused by high demand on the power grid, equipment failure, or severe weather conditions.

Blackout: Blackouts, often referred to as power outages, are when a complete loss of electrical power across a given area occurs. Blackouts can be caused by various factors, such as equipment failure, severe thunderstorms and hurricanes, vehicle accidents near power lines, wildlife gnawing at power lines, and even electrical damage from construction work.

During a blackout, all electrical devices stop working, resulting in a disruption to daily life, comfort, and communication.

Why Install a Generator?

Generators play a crucial role in mitigating the adverse effects of both brownouts and blackouts. These devices convert fuel (gasoline, diesel, or natural gas) into electricity, providing an alternative power source when the grid fails.

Here’s how installing a generator at your home or business can help:

• Supports Continuous Operations: A generator provides peace of mind, allowing you to continue your daily activities and work even when the grid fails. This is especially important if you work at home or operate a business—as well as for those who rely heavily on electronic devices.
  
• Preserves Perishable Food: During blackouts, refrigerated and frozen food can spoil quickly. A generator ensures that your food supply remains fresh.
  
• Alleviates Any Disruption to Medical Support: Individuals with medical conditions that require electronic medical equipment, such as respirators or dialysis machines, greatly benefit from a backup power source. A generator can be a literal lifesaver in these situations.
  
• Helps Keep Your Property Protected: Sump pumps, security systems, and climate control systems are essential for maintaining your property’s integrity. A generator safeguards your home against flooding, theft, and extreme temperatures during power interruptions.
  
• Increases Property Value: Installing a generator adds value to your property, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers. It’s a worthwhile investment that pays off both in utility and resale value.

We rely on technology at home and for business, which is why it is important to have an alternate source of power whenever there is a dip or complete power outage. By investing in a generator, you take back charge of your comfort, safety, and productivity.

Install a Generator In Your Home or Business

Ready to install a generator in your Southlake, TX home or business? Generator Authority is ready to assist! For residential generator or commercial generator installation, call us at 817-984-3600 or request service online.