Power outages are not the only moment when electronics are at risk. The greater danger often comes when electricity returns, because a sudden surge can travel into smartphones, laptops, tablets, desktop computers, and other connected devices.
According to Aryo Meidianto, Head of Public Relations at PT Trinova Digital Indonesia, the unsafe period is not only when the grid goes dark, but also when current normalizes again. At that point, a power surge can reach internal components and damage chargers, batteries, charging ports, and even the motherboard.
Why repeated power interruptions are dangerous
When electricity flickers on and off, the sudden change in current can place stress on electronic components. The damage may not appear immediately, but repeated exposure can accumulate over time and shorten a device’s usable life.
The risk becomes even higher when a device is charging during an outage and power comes back without warning. The abrupt shift can harm the charger, the battery, and the charging circuit, especially if the device remains plugged into the wall.
What users should do first
The most effective basic step is to unplug all devices from the wall socket as soon as the electricity becomes unstable. Aryo said a simple sign such as a blinking light can be an early warning that chargers should be disconnected immediately.
This habit matters not only during a full outage, but also when the supply looks unreliable. A quick disconnection can reduce exposure when power returns and the electrical load rises suddenly.
Protective devices that can help
For added protection, a surge-protected power strip can help reduce the risk from sudden voltage spikes. It is especially useful for televisions, computers, and game consoles that are sensitive to abrupt current changes.
For computers and servers that store important data, an UPS is the better option. It provides temporary backup power and helps stabilize voltage, giving users time to save their work and shut down devices safely.
Common mistakes users often overlook
One frequent mistake is leaving chargers plugged in during a blackout. Many users also start charging their phones again before the power supply has fully stabilized, even though that can increase the risk of damage to charging components.
Turning on every device at once after electricity returns is also not a safe approach. A sudden jump in electrical load can increase the chance of problems for multiple electronics connected to the same system.
Data backup and battery protection
Aryo also stressed the importance of regular data backups for people who rely on laptops, PCs, or tablets for daily work. Backups can be stored in the cloud or on external SSD storage so files remain safe if a device is affected by a voltage surge.
For smartphones and tablets, a power bank can serve as a backup energy source during an outage. However, the product should be of good quality, because cheap power banks may affect battery health on the device itself.
Simple steps to reduce the risk
| Preventive Step | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Unplug chargers when lights start flickering | Reduces exposure to unstable current |
| Remove all plugs during an outage | Limits damage when power returns |
| Use a surge protector | Helps shield sensitive electronics |
| Use a UPS for computers and work devices | Provides backup power and stabilizes voltage |
| Power devices on gradually | Avoids a sudden electrical load |
| Switch off the MCB during an outage | Helps reduce surge risk |
Using an original charger also remains important because it generally offers better current protection than unofficial products. With a few disciplined precautions, the risk of damage from unstable electricity can be reduced before any device starts showing signs of trouble.
