Can I Shower During a Power Outage?

Power outages are a common occurrence across the U.S., especially during severe weather and other emergencies. When the power goes out in your home, it robs you of tons of comforts. Now, you can’t charge your smartphone, you can’t operate HVAC systems, and can’t use the internet. But does a power outage prevent you from taking a shower?

As trusted local electricians, we get a lot of questions about what to do during a power outage. One of the common questions we get is, "Can I shower during a power outage?" Today, we are going to give you a definitive answer in this article.

So, can I shower if the power is out?

The short answer to this question is: it depends. If you have a storage tank water heater and the power goes out, you may still have access to hot water for a limited time. This will depend on the initial temperature of the stored water and the level of insulation in your water heater. Initially, the water in the tank will remain hot for some time after the power outage. As time passes, the water inside the tank will gradually cool.

What About A Tankless Water Heater?

Tankless water heaters rely on electricity or gas to heat water on demand as it flows through the unit. If you have an electric tankless water heater, it will not function during a power outage. Similarly, gas tankless water heaters with electronic ignition may also be affected. However, some gas tankless water heaters use a standing pilot light for ignition. In this case, you might still have access to hot water during a power outage, as the pilot light can remain operational.

What Can You Do To Ensure Your Home Always Has Hot Water

Fortunately, there are a few backup methods you can employ to ensure uninterrupted access to hot water during power outages:

• Install a backup generator

One of the options available to you is to install a backup generator. This is a reliable way to ensure your home has hot water during power outages. Generators can power your water heater, allowing it to function seamlessly even when the grid is down. This ensures you have access to hot water for showers, cooking, and other essential tasks regardless of power disruptions. When you’re ready to install a backup generator in your home, be sure to work with a qualified and experienced electrician. An electrician can perform a load calculation to ensure the generator is appropriately sized.

• Use a solar heater

Another option is utilizing solar water heaters to harness the sun's energy for hot water production. Solar heaters are environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run. They work by absorbing sunlight through solar panels or collectors and transferring the heat to your water supply. While they may require an initial investment, solar water heaters can provide consistent hot water and reduce energy bills.

• Professional HPÖE Generator Installation Service

Here at Mr. Electric, we’ve built a solid reputation for offering reliable electrical services, including home generator installation service, exhaust fan installation, electrical repair service, and more. When it’s time to install a backup generator in your property, you can trust the team at Mr. Electric to get the job done right. Our professional electricians will ensure that the installation is done safely and in compliance with local building codes.