My lights are not as bright (and flickering), my microwave isn't running at full power, and my heat vents aren't blowing at full force.
Is this an areawide grid issue or am I overdoing my fuse box?
Edit: North Highland Park
Comments
femanonette t1_j1jwx8v wrote
Dominion did send out an email that they're seeing a demand on the grid and to use as minimal power as you possibly can.
RulerOfTheRest t1_j1jreul wrote
I had a problem like that where one of my legs (wires) was dropping down to around 70 volts instead of 120. Turned out that the meter socket had gone bad and had a poor connection, and it was a contributing factor in killing my heat pump. I had an electrician buddy pull the permits, have the power company disconnect service line at the transformer located at the telephone pole, he installed the new meter box, and then had everything turned back on. After that I replaced the heat pump since it was well past its lifespan. For his work, it just cost me my time to help him rebuild a motor.
The first step is you should call Dominion, they are responsible for the step-down transformer at the pole and line going into your meter box, and if you're lucky the problem will be on their end. If it's your meter socket, or breaker panel, you're going to need an electrician. Be warned though: HVAC equipment is very sensitive with low voltage and can be damaged when attempting to run with it. And most of the other electronics, like TV's and computers don't like low voltage either.
Good luck...
zazzersmel t1_j1jxneq wrote
yeah electricity can travel from the live leg to the dead leg over your 220v appliances that use both legs. not good for them at all.
amullen17 t1_j1l3q7v wrote
*240
Vapid_Ingenue t1_j1lib7r wrote
You're both right. And if anyone wants to put *250 they'll be right too
amullen17 t1_j1nhr6j wrote
220V is incorrect. The power company provides two hot ‘legs’ or wires (both 120V) and a neutral for a standard residential service. These two combine to make 240V. Your large appliances such as dryer, HVAC, and stove all run off of 240V. 220 volts is simply not enough voltage to run these appliances. So no, 220V is not correct.
Source: I work in the industry.
Vapid_Ingenue t1_j1njpeb wrote
Thanks! Maybe one day I can grow up to be as knowledgeable as you!
Merry Christmas!
amullen17 t1_j1nvphb wrote
LOL just passing on a thing or two I’ve learned over the years. Merry Christmas to you as well!
JoeMorrisseysSperm t1_j1jpu34 wrote
That sounds highly concerning. I do not have that problem.
predicktable_x t1_j1jw3m4 wrote
Call Dominion - they should send someone over asap. That could be a dangerous situation.
ohnogangsters t1_j1jtyaw wrote
not in the area, but i would definitely unplug your expensive electronics if you're having a brown-out. stay warm!
10698 t1_j1jvuq4 wrote
Unplug anything you care about and call Dominion. Throw the breakers for your HVAC and any electric water heater to prevent potentially significant damage.
SunEarthMoonYou t1_j1jpxkk wrote
What part of town? Sounds like it could be a “Brown out” situation
AuFingers t1_j1klshk wrote
117 VAC in the 23112
RJT_RVA OP t1_j1klupm wrote
I'm lost on everything but the zip code
Sparklynewusername t1_j1kpzh9 wrote
VAC = Volts Alternating Current. Fingers is saying they're getting 117 volts at their place which is pretty close to the expected 120.
the_faded_memories t1_j1nx7l3 wrote
Happened at our house couple years ago. Bad leg. Dominion wired up a temporary fix and came back a week or so later to trench a new line from the junction box nearby.
Definitely get someone to look at it and check voltages, partial power can cause a lot more issues than just a straight loss of power.
RJT_RVA OP t1_j1nxcko wrote
Like what? Not doubting, just curious.
10698 t1_j1oep1t wrote
Low-voltage conditions are bad for any electrical device, but particularly motors. A brownout can overheat and burn out AC motors, such as the ones found in your refrigerator, HVAC, washer, dryer, garbage disposal, etc. Here's a list of damage it could cause to your HVAC.
LostDefectivePearl t1_j1jto5m wrote
I am not an expert by any means but my house has crappy wiring and I super recommend you don’t use the microwave for a bit
[deleted] t1_j1jxfpx wrote
[deleted]
TheFakePlissken t1_j1jz1dj wrote
I did see a few power trucks working in Highland Park Southern Tip while walking my dog earlier. Around 3:00. Maybe related, maybe not.
lemonartichoke t1_j1kpnhe wrote
We’re in highland park and noticed the same thing with our lights
RJT_RVA OP t1_j1ktdzj wrote
I reported it to Dominion! They said they'd send someone out.
shes_the_won t1_j1kgg8n wrote
I had a similar problem and it turned out to be a Dominion issue specific to my house. Apparently the ground wire between the outdoor pole and my house was bad. They replaced it and it eliminated the inconsistent power supply problem
Charlesinrichmond t1_j1kr67q wrote
Probably you. Check up on it this could be very bad. I'm guessing from the question you aren't experienced with a meter so you should probably call an electrician
blancamystiere t1_j1k1z68 wrote
The most logical answer is obviously a haunting, this time of year typically it’s important to keep an eye out for ghosts trying to peddle either a “Christmas past” or “Christmas future” sort of agenda.