Momentary power interruptions are more noticeable now that more consumers have electronic equipment sensitive to even a split second loss of power.

More than likely, a momentary interruption is the result of an animal or a small branch short-circuiting a power line. The contact is detected by sensors and a circuit breaker interrupts power for less than a second to allow the short circuit to clear. If it clears, the breaker resets itself and the power stays on. The "trip and reclose" process is repeated three times to give the power line several chances to clear. If the line doesn't clear, then the circuit breaker stays open and must be reset after the line has been checked or repaired by a field crew.

While these momentary interruptions may be an inconvenience, this "trip and reclose" process protects against serious damage and sustained power outages.