How to Safely Turn Off the Power to Your House from Outside

How To Turn Off Power To House From Outside

If you’re a homeowner in East Providence, Rhode Island, you may find yourself in a situation where you need to turn off the power to your house from the outside. Whether it’s for a home renovation project or a power outage, knowing how to safely disconnect the electricity supply to your home is crucial. As a trusted electrical business based in Warwick, RI, B&K Electric understands the importance of proper electrical maintenance and safety. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to turn off the power to your house from outside, ensuring your safety and that of your home.

Check the Zip Code and Location of Your Home

Before beginning the process of turning off the power to your house from outside, it’s essential to identify your home’s zip code and location. In this case, as a resident of East Providence, RI, your zip code is 02906. It’s also necessary to know the location of your electrical panel. The electrical panel is usually located on the outside of your house, often near the foundation, in a metal box. It’s typically marked Electric Meter or Main Service Panel. If you’re having trouble locating your electrical panel, contact a professional electrician like B&K Electric to assist you.

Make Sure to Have the Right Tools

Before starting any electrical work, it’s crucial to have the right tools for the job. In this case, you’ll need a flashlight, a pair of rubber gloves, and a voltage tester. If you don’t have these tools, make sure to purchase them before attempting to turn off the power to your house from outside. It’s essential to wear rubber gloves when working on electrical systems to protect yourself from electric shocks.

Take Necessary Precautions

Before proceeding to turn off the power to your house from outside, there are a few precautions you should take. Make sure to remove any standing water or puddles near the electrical panel to avoid the risk of electrocution. If the weather is wet, wait for it to dry before proceeding to work on the electrical panel. Also, make sure to inform your family members or anyone else living in the house that you will be turning off the power and ensure they are out of the house during the process.

Identify and Turn Off the Main Power Switch

Once you have taken the necessary precautions, use the flashlight to locate the main power switch inside the electrical panel. It’s usually the largest switch in the panel, often marked Main or Main Disconnect. This switch controls the flow of electricity to your entire home. Carefully use the gloves and grip the switch with one hand, then pull it to the off position. Use the voltage tester to ensure that the electrical panel is no longer receiving any electricity. If the voltage tester lights up, it means there is still electricity flowing, and you should contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Check for Any Remaining Power Sources

Even though you have turned off the main power switch, there may be other sources of electricity in your home. Check for any remaining power sources by plugging in a lamp or using a voltage tester in different outlets throughout your home. If the lamp turns on or the voltage tester lights up, it means there is still electricity flowing, and you should contact a professional electrician for assistance.

Turning the Power Back On

After completing your home renovation project or the power outage has been resolved, it’s time to turn the power back on. Go back to the electrical panel and carefully switch the main power switch back to the on position. Use the voltage tester to ensure there is electricity flowing, and if everything is working correctly, your home’s electricity should be restored.

Turning off the power to your house from outside may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, precautions, and steps, it can be easily done. However, if you are unsure of what you’re doing or not completely comfortable working with electricity, it’s best to contact a licensed electrician like B&K Electric. We have been proudly serving the residents of Warwick, RI, and its surrounding areas for over seventeen years. As a family-owned and operated business, we prioritize customer service and strive to provide safe and reliable electrical solutions. Make B&K Electric your go-to electrician for all your residential and business electrical needs in the Warwick area and greater Providence area.

Topics:

Electrical panel maintenance,

Electrical repair,

Rhode Island electrical services.