Check out some similar questions!

bethbloco · Dec 26, 2008, 07:55 AM

Last night while watching TV, the chritmas tree flickered and went out along with the TV, DVD, fridge, microwave and stove. I went to switch the breakers in the garage and nothing happened. Went outside in windy damp weather and flicked the main switch.. thought I heard a 'Buzz" sound, but could not tell becasue of the wind. Went back in and everything was working.
Got up this morning, heated coffee in the microwave and in stoppped briefly ( a second) and then continued on. Turned on the TV to hear the morning news and the whole circut went off...just in that same area...other lights are on else where. Went outside to the main and turned the main switch on and off...definately heard a "buzz." Things are still off in that area and I reported it to the electric company. They are to attend to it in a few hours. Any thoughts? The house is 10 years old. Thanks

Tev · Dec 26, 2008, 10:53 AM

Just a guess, there may be a loose connection in your main disconnect causing you to only have one of the two hot legs that feed your house. This would cause half the circuits in the house to lose power and prevent anything that operates on 240v from working correctly.

Do you have an electric dryer, furnace or hot water heater? If you do, and if I am not too far off base, then they will not have the proper voltage either and all you can do is wait for the power company to get to you.

andrewc24301 · Dec 28, 2008, 11:55 AM

This requires immediate attention as it does sound like a loose connection. But a loose connection on a main lug is more than just a nuisance, it's a downright fire hazard. Loose connections, especially on high amp terminals can cause big damage fast.

I would get someone out ASAP and try not to use any electricity until the problem is remedied.

Keep an eye on the breaker box, meter plug, etc in the mean time to make sure it's not smoking or anything.

Our town just lost our historic train station due to a "loose connection" on a 15 AMP light circuit in the attic of the building. Imagine the damage a 200 AMP main power lug can do when it comes loose.