When an electrical panel upgrade or major repair requires shutting down your home’s power, the last impression you’ll remember is how that power comes back on. At Allstar Electrical, we follow a disciplined re-energizing protocol that puts safety, equipment longevity, and customer convenience first.
Why Breakers Start Off Before the Main Comes On
Throwing the main breaker while every branch circuit is still live can create a massive inrush of current—think refrigerators, HVAC compressors, pumps, computers, and chargers all drawing power at the same instant. Besides nuisance trips, that spike can shorten the life of sensitive electronics. OSHA’s work-practice rules emphasize controlling all hazardous energy sources during re-energization to prevent unexpected equipment operation osha.gov, while NFPA guidance recommends staged re-energizing with monitoring to verify proper operation nfpa.org.
Our Step-by-Step Re-Energizing Checklist
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Stage the Panel
- All branch breakers in the OFF position.
- Visual inspection for loose conductors or tools.
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Communicate With the Homeowner
“Is now a good time to restore power?” This avoids surprises—especially if someone is on a video call or medical device. -
Main Breaker Engagement – Hand on the handle, eyes averted
Looking away protects your vision if an unlikely arc-flash were to occur. (It’s also why you’ll see our techs wearing arc-rated PPE.) -
Sequential Circuit Energizing
High-demand circuits first (HVAC, range, dryer) to avoid simultaneous compressor starts.
Essential circuits next (refrigerator, sump pump, internet modem/router).
Lighting and general-use circuits last. -
Appliance Spot-Check
- HVAC/Furnace: Confirm blower or condenser startup.
- Refrigerator & Freezer: Listen for compressor hum.
- Sump Pump: Test float switch, if accessible.
- Modem/Router: Verify indicator lights and Wi-Fi reconnection.
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Final Walk-Through With the Customer
We confirm every essential load is operating and answer any questions about new labeling or breaker locations.
Benefits to the Homeowner
| Benefit | How You’ll Notice |
|---|---|
| Reduced inrush current | No sudden dimming, flickering, or breaker trips |
| Protection for sensitive electronics | Modem, router, and smart devices come online smoothly |
| Faster troubleshooting | If a branch breaker trips, we know exactly which load caused it |
| Peace of mind | You see (and hear) us verify every critical appliance before we leave |