Have you ever thought about how many devices, appliances, and other things around your home use electricity? Well, if your power goes out, you definitely will. But you wouldn’t be alone in asking, “Can you use water during a power outage?” considering how many things in your home rely on power. Don’t worry, plumbing appliances are safe to use during a power outage. In most cases, you will still be able to use your toilets, shower, and sink but you should still be cautious.
Can You Still Use Water When the Power Is Out?
Yes. If the power goes out, the city water should still work if you live in a home. However, some apartment buildings and condos, even in a city, will not be able to use their water without power. You can flush the toilet when the power is out, but don’t expect to be able to use appliances like a washer or dishwasher. Those appliances rely on power to operate. However, your kitchen or bathroom faucets are still operational.
Types of Water Systems Affected by a Power Outage
While faucet water relies on gravity, several water systems use an electronic pump to push water. However, if your home draws water from a well, you may encounter issues. A typical well reservoir can hold 10 to 50 gallons, but without any power, you’ll only be able to use what’s available until it runs out. Here are some of the water systems affected by power outages.
- Sump-pumps
- Pump reliant toilets
- Some sewer systems
Types of Systems Not Affected by a Power Outage
Most cities pump their water into water towers, where it is then distributed throughout homes. The water tower is typically in an elevated area allowing water to flow by gravity, not electricity. Several appliances use gravity to supply your water needs, such as toilets, sinks, and showers.
How Long Will the Water Run After a Power Outage
It’s difficult to say how long your water will run after a power outage because it depends on factors such as your location’s water source. If you know your water source is a well or is otherwise reliant on electricity, only use water when absolutely necessary.
Can You Flush the Toilet When the Power is Out?
To answer this question, we need another question: does the toilet use electricity? While most toilets rely on gravity to flush, some more recent toilet models do. If yours does not, you’ll have a limited amount of flushes before it stops working. But how many times can you flush a toilet without power? It’s hard to say a specific number. Your home or building may have water in its pipes, but as soon as that water is gone, you’ll have to wait for power to come back. So, if the power goes out, make every flush count.
Can You Shower When the Power is Out?
Just like a sink and toilet, you can shower when the power is out. However, you might not have hot water or at least a limited supply. Your hot water heater can hold a significant amount of water, and with a power supply, can keep your water warm. But as soon as the power is out, you have about 1-2 hours before that water turns cool. The exception to this is a gas water heater. Your gas water heater will work without electricity.
What if You Have Old HVAC Systems
Do you have an old HVAC system? Whether it’s an aged water heater, furnace, or boiler, you should have it double-checked by a HARP Plumber.
We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services at no extra charge. Homeowners and businesses in Connecticut shouldn’t hesitate to call us right away. We guarantee same-day service, and our multiple locations make it convenient to find us.