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A brownout occurs when the power supplier reduces electrical voltage. This is done to force our appliances and lights to use less electrical power (watts). The lights will dim slightly. Generally, voltage reductions are advertised on radio and television. When they occur take the following steps:
1. Turn off all lights and appliances except those which are absolutely necessary.
2. Delay jobs like dishwashing and laundry until after the brownout is over.
3. Turn off all air conditioning if it is operating, unless it is necessary for a person's health.
4. If you have an electric range, plan meals which require a minimum of cooking.
If everyone will cooperate and reduce electrical consumption, the duration of the brownout will be reduced. It is also important to continue to conserve energy immediately following the brownout or voltage reductions may again have to be put into effect.
The power suppliers do reduce voltage more than 10 volts below normal during a brownout, which for limited periods of a few hours will not cause damage to a consumer's equipment. If a reduction in power is not planned by the power company, shut down all equipment with motors. The low power could cause the equipment to burn out the motor trying wiring supplying the equipment. An electrician should be called to check out the problem.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus, with references from MSU's Ag Engineering Department.
MSU 2003
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