Power outages are inconvenient at best—and costly or dangerous at worst. In Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes region, strong storms and seasonal weather can knock out electricity in entire neighbourhoods. But even when the power comes back, homeowners often experience electrical issues that require professional help.
At Nixon Electric Company, your trusted local electrician in Peterborough, we regularly receive calls after the power is restored—because something isn’t working properly or safely.
Here are the most common electrical problems we see after a power outage in Peterborough, and what you should do next.
Some Outlets or Rooms Still Don’t Have Power
What’s happening: Lights and power are back in some parts of your home, but others remain dead.
Common in Peterborough homes with: older wiring or sensitive GFCI circuits.
What to check:
- The main breaker panel for any tripped breakers.
- GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, or basements.
- If resetting doesn’t help, call a licensed local electrician in Peterborough to inspect your wiring.
Appliances or Electronics Were Damaged
What’s happening: Your fridge, TV, modem, or computer won’t turn back on after the outage.
Why it happens: Power surges during restoration can fry sensitive electronics—a common issue in both urban and rural Peterborough homes.
What to do:
- Use surge-protected outlets or power bars going forward.
- Consider whole-home surge protection (we install this!).
- If damage has occurred, contact Nixon Electric Company for an inspection and insurance documentation.
The Breaker Keeps Tripping
What’s happening: The main breaker or individual circuits won’t stay on.
Cause: Too many devices powering up at once can overload circuits, especially after a long outage.
What to do:
- Turn off appliances before resetting breakers.
- If they continue to trip, there may be a short or overload—don’t force it.
- Call a qualified Peterborough electrician for a diagnosis.
Buzzing Outlets or Burning Smell
What’s happening: You hear strange noises or smell burning from outlets or electrical panels.
Why this is serious: It could be a short circuit, melted wiring, or signs of an electrical fire hazard.
What to do:
- Shut off power at the breaker panel to the affected area.
- Do not attempt to use the outlet.
- Call Nixon Electric Company in Peterborough right away for emergency service.
No Power at Your Home, But Everyone Else Has It
What’s happening: The power is back on your street—but your home is still dark.
Common cause in Peterborough:Storm damage to your service mast or hydro meter (which is your responsibility, not the utility’s).
What to do:
- Look for visible damage to the mast or hydro connection (but don’t touch).
- Call your utility provider and a local electrician in Peterborough like Nixon Electric Company to coordinate safe repairs and reconnection.
