ᐅ Multi-day Power Outage as Currently Experienced in Berlin: Risks for Heating Systems and Water Pipes?
Created on: 6 Jan 2026 10:01
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Pianist
Good day!
As you probably know from the news, there is currently an extended power outage in the southern part of Berlin, which started on Saturday and is expected to last until Thursday. This makes me wonder: what impact does a multi-day power outage have on building systems when outside temperatures are below freezing?
Let’s assume that a house in an unprepared state would no longer be habitable by usual standards. The fresh water system can be drained, and the local water supplier can be asked to shut off the supply line in the street. This should take care of that aspect. But what about the circulation water in the heating system? It’s unlikely that every radiator or underfloor heating loop can be completely drained reliably.
How long does it take for a well-insulated house, constructed with materials that have good thermal mass, to freeze enough that there is a risk of heating pipes bursting? The consequences would be severe, potentially requiring the removal of the screed…
So, let’s assume minus ten degrees Celsius (14°F) and a week without power. Are there any experience reports from previous events?
Matthias
As you probably know from the news, there is currently an extended power outage in the southern part of Berlin, which started on Saturday and is expected to last until Thursday. This makes me wonder: what impact does a multi-day power outage have on building systems when outside temperatures are below freezing?
Let’s assume that a house in an unprepared state would no longer be habitable by usual standards. The fresh water system can be drained, and the local water supplier can be asked to shut off the supply line in the street. This should take care of that aspect. But what about the circulation water in the heating system? It’s unlikely that every radiator or underfloor heating loop can be completely drained reliably.
How long does it take for a well-insulated house, constructed with materials that have good thermal mass, to freeze enough that there is a risk of heating pipes bursting? The consequences would be severe, potentially requiring the removal of the screed…
So, let’s assume minus ten degrees Celsius (14°F) and a week without power. Are there any experience reports from previous events?
Matthias
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nordanney6 Jan 2026 11:19Pianist schrieb:
But if nothing ever happens, then you wouldn’t really need to drain it, right? I was considering draining the system in summer and replacing the fill with something frost-resistant. No, that’s like using a parachute in addition to suspenders. When choosing antifreeze, make sure it’s compatible with the materials used in the system. Also, keep in mind that it doesn’t flow as easily as water, which can challenge circulation pumps.
Pianist schrieb:
The next question would be, whether it might be better to get information from a prepper group and join such a community. In 99.999% of cases, it’s mostly for peace of mind. Otherwise, it’s just spending money on equipment that slowly rusts away.
Pianist schrieb:
For a new build, I would definitely give serious thought to what a good overall concept could look like. Focus on practical planning for your new build rather than on an unnecessary and costly concept.
P.S. I have a neighbor who pursues self-sufficiency as a hobby. Photovoltaic panels + two off-grid systems + various storage units + wind power + heat pump supplemented by a wood stove with a water jacket (the stove handles most of the time) + diesel generator to recharge storage when there’s no sun (to avoid grid power). It works really well. Necessary? No, just a hobby costing five figures.
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nordanney6 Jan 2026 11:28Pianist schrieb:
Tell that to those affected...Yes, it’s terrible. But it only affects a very small part of the population—and mostly in apartment buildings (yes, that doesn't make it any better). However, these are terrorist acts, similar to what has happened before in Berlin.Just to put it into perspective: over the past 10 years, you personally have experienced an average power outage of 10–12 minutes per year. The risk is close to zero. It’s similar to flying—when something happens, it makes the news and directly affects a larger number of people. Personally, I cannot recall a power outage lasting longer than that in my entire life.
During my childhood in former West Berlin, it happened once for a few hours, but otherwise I never experienced anything like that again. However, with the recent incidents (I’ll put it neutrally, but I agree with your assessment), members of my family have always been affected, and right now we are experiencing another quartering again.
The problem for me is that I not only live here but also work here. Without electricity, not much can be done... At least I should consider having an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for an orderly shutdown.
The problem for me is that I not only live here but also work here. Without electricity, not much can be done... At least I should consider having an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for an orderly shutdown.
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Gerddieter6 Jan 2026 12:05Is there any special "configuration" that allows an emergency power supply using photovoltaic panels and a battery?
Gerddieter schrieb:
Is there any special "configuration" that allows backup power supply with photovoltaic and battery?Yes, a black start-capable backup power system enables the house to operate fully as long as there is power stored in the battery. This can be arranged as part of the photovoltaic/battery setup, but it involves additional work and extra costs. A standard battery system often includes a socket for essential devices like a refrigerator, coffee machine, home office equipment, etc.Similar topics