Load management is how we reduce electrical load on our network during periods of high or 'peak' electrical demand or if Transpower, or another electricity industry participant, requests that we carry out load management.
Load management is generally carried out in winter, often in the morning or early evening, and is done by sending a signal from our control room to switch off hot water heating to reduce the amount of electricity being used. When power demand eases, we send out a signal that switches hot water cylinders back on.
Consumers on a price plan where we can control their hot water pay a lower price for line charges than those who do not allow control of hot water. The lower controlled pricing plan applies over the whole year, even though load management is generally restricted to the winter months. All arrangements to move to or from a controlled price plan must be made through your electricity retailer. Costs may apply. See our load management FAQs for more information.
Old and poorly maintained service lines, and those close to trees, are most likely to be damaged in bad weather. Damaged service lines not only cause power loss to your home, but they can also be a safety hazard.
Vector does not survey service lines, so you need to arrange to have your lines maintained yourself. Electricity lines are dangerous – any inspection or repair work must only be carried out by qualified electrical workers. Never do the work yourself.
Protect your equipment and appliances from spikes and power surges
Cars crash into poles; animals or trees can damage power lines; storms cause lines to clash - these events can all cause power outages and send voltage spikes through power lines, potentially causing damage to household appliances or business equipment and machinery.
We do not guarantee an uninterrupted power supply and are not liable for damage caused by surges and spikes. Please check if your insurance policy provides cover against such damage. Some insurance policies refer to the effects of spikes and surges as "fusion" and some policies exclude this type of damage.
While spikes and surges are rare, you should protect your sensitive equipment by using a power filter or surge protector.
If you are concerned about losing data on a computer, consider an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). They have battery back-ups which maintain power supply allowing you to shut your computers down safely.
Power quality
Small spikes and surges in power, and electrical 'noise' caused by other non-network equipment, can also affect electronics and cause minor damage that eventually leads to equipment failure.
About 80% of power quality issues are actually caused by other equipment on the same premises, and they are often easily fixed. Power filters and surge protectors will help protect equipment from catastrophic events and also reduce unnecessary wear and tear.
