When your lights go out in Edinburgh, it's crucial to quickly determine whether you're experiencing a wider power cut or a fault specific to your property. The difference determines whether you need to wait or call an emergency electrician immediately.
Quick Assessment Steps
1. Check Your Neighbors
- Look out windows for lights in nearby properties
- Check if street lights are working
- Ask neighbors if they have power
2. Check Your Electrical Panel
Even during power cuts, your breakers and RCDs should remain in the "ON" position. If any have tripped, you have an electrical fault.
3. Use Edinburgh Power Networks
Check the SP Energy Networks power cut map online or call 105 for power cut information in your area.
Signs It's Your Electrical Fault (Not a Power Cut)
Call Emergency Electrician If:
- • Neighbors have power but you don't
- • Circuit breakers or RCDs have tripped
- • You smell burning or see sparks
- • Only part of your property has power
- • Power went off after using an appliance
- • You heard a loud bang before power loss
Edinburgh Area Power Cut Information
Common Edinburgh Power Cut Areas
- City Centre (EH1-EH2): Usually restored quickly due to priority status
- New Town (EH3-EH4): Underground cables sometimes affected by road works
- Leith (EH6-EH7): Coastal weather can occasionally affect supply
- Morningside (EH10): Generally reliable supply with fast restoration
Typical Power Cut Duration in Edinburgh
- Minor faults: 1-3 hours
- Major equipment failure: 3-8 hours
- Weather-related damage: Variable
What to Do During Extended Power Cuts
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed
- Use battery-powered lighting, not candles
- Charge devices while you can
- Have emergency contact numbers ready
Safety First
If you're ever unsure whether your power loss is due to a cut or fault, it's safer to call an emergency electrician. We can quickly assess your electrical system and ensure your safety.
Available 24/7 across Edinburgh for emergency electrical problems. Don't take risks with electrical safety.