power outages

Experiencing Power Outages: Cleveland, Akron, Northeast Ohio

Sudden darkness. The whirl of the refrigerator winding down. The beep from a UPS battery backup. Power outages are abrupt and stressful, yet we immediately know what is happening.

However, you may not know the answers to the most important questions: Why did the power go out? And what do I do next?

If you are frantically typing “power outages near me” into your phone, stop and take a breath. AC Electric, your trusted electric company in Cleveland, Ohio, is here to guide you through the dark.

Determine Why the Power is Out

Step 1: Determine Why the Power is Out

 

Your town or neighborhood may be experiencing a grid-wide outage (Cleveland weather often leaves downed lines in its wake). However, the issue might be isolated to your own home.

Perform this quick check from AEP Ohio:

  1. Look out the window. are the streetlights or neighbors’ lights on?
  2. If neighbors have power: The issue is likely your equipment. Check your circuit breakers. If a breaker has tripped, reset it. If it trips again immediately, do not force it.
  3. If the breaker is fine but power is off: You may need a home electrician to inspect for a main breaker failure or loose wiring.

 

Step 2: Staying Safe During an Outage

Electricity and water don’t mix, and a lack of lighting compounds your risk. Follow these safety protocols:

General Safety

  • Avoid Downed Lines: Do not touch debris within 10 feet of downed power lines. Treat every wire as if it were live.
  • Water Hazard: If you discover standing water near electrical wiring or appliances, do not touch the water. Call an electrician immediately.
  • Protect Your Appliances: Turn off major appliances and all but one light. This protects your circuits from a massive “surge” when power is restored.

Generator & Heating Safety

  • Ventilation is Key: Only operate lanterns, heaters, and fuel-fired stoves with proper ventilation. Never burn charcoal indoors—it releases deadly carbon monoxide.
  • Refuel Outside: Refuel heaters and generators outdoors. Stay away from open flames and clean up fuel spills immediately.
  • Don’t Backfeed: NEVER connect a generator’s electrical output directly to a live home circuit (backfeeding). This can electrocute utility workers repairing the lines down the street.

Find More Information: Power Outage Reports

Who Do I Call? (Utility vs. Electrician)

Knowing who to call saves you time.

Call the Utility Company (First Energy/AEP) if:

  • The outage is widespread in your neighborhood.
  • A tree has fallen on the lines in the street.

Call AC Electric (216-941-3072) if:

  • Your neighbors have power, but you do not.
  • The “Weatherhead” (the pipe on your roof where wires enter) is damaged or bent.
  • Your meter box has been ripped away from the house.
  • Note: The utility company will NOT repair the equipment attached to your house. You must hire a private contractor for that.

Power Outage Resources & Reports

Once you have established your home’s internal systems aren’t to blame, check these trusted sources to see outage maps and estimated restoration times:

Need Repair Assistance?

 

If the storm damaged the electrical mast, meter base, or wiring attached to your home, the power company cannot reconnect you until it is fixed by a licensed pro.

Cleveland Electrical Services & Emergency Repair Call AC Electric immediately