Devices and everyday software
What to check on your devices after a power outage
A calm order of checks for computers, modems and other devices once the power comes back on.
What you will learn
You'll know a sensible order to check and restart devices after an outage, and when to stop and get an electrician instead.
Before you continue
Do not touch a switchboard or damaged wiring. Contact a licensed electrician if you notice burning smells, damaged cabling, or ongoing shocks or tingles from an appliance or tap.
Stop and contact a licensed electrician for anything involving wiring, switchboards or repeated shocks or tingles. Contact your internet provider if service does not return after restarting your equipment and checking for a wider outage.
Give it a moment first
When power is restored after an outage, brief fluctuations are common while supply settles. Waiting a few minutes before plugging sensitive equipment back in is a simple, sensible precaution.
Check before you switch on
Look over cords, powerboards and equipment for anything unusual before turning things back on. Do not touch a switchboard or damaged wiring.
Deal with anything that was left on
If a stove, oven or similar appliance was on when the power went out, check it rather than letting it restart unattended. This isn't specific to technology, but it's worth doing before you turn back to your devices.
Turn on and check devices one at a time
Switch on computers, modems, TVs and other equipment one at a time rather than all at once. This makes it easier to notice if something isn't behaving normally.
Restart your modem or router if needed
If your internet doesn't come back with everything else, your modem or router may need a proper restart rather than a factory reset. It's also worth knowing that if you're connected to the nbn, your home phone and internet are unlikely to work during the outage itself, since that equipment also needs power.
If a device relies on the phone line or internet
If anyone in the home has a medical alarm or similar device connected through a landline, it's worth knowing in advance whether it has its own battery backup, since it may also be affected while power or nbn equipment is down. This is worth checking with the device's provider well before storm season, not during an outage.
Still not working?
If one device still isn't working after these checks, it helps to work out whether it's that device, your home network or a wider outage before assuming the worst.
What to expect
Your devices have been checked and restarted safely, or you know it's time to contact an electrician or your internet provider.
Sources and further reading
- When power goes out · Energex
Supports the guidance on switching off and unplugging sensitive equipment, checking for damage, and the nbn's dependency on mains power including for landline-connected medical alarms.