I’ve read straightdope for a long time but just recently decided to subscribe. So, here’s my first question.
There is a small box plugged into one of only two outlets near my TV. I’d really like to use that outlet but a label on the box says “Emergency Power Do Not Disconnect”. It was here when I moved in… any idea what it is? I searched google for awhile but failed to find anything useful.
Thanks!
Drax
Do you have an alarm system or anything else which might have a battery backup?
We do have an alarm system in the apartment but it’s not active.
My guess would be that’s where the alarm’s battery backup is connected to get charged up, but that’s one notch below a WAG, based on the fact that my alarm system has a plug like that, it’s just not labeled as such.
Assuming you’re right, what would happen if I unplugged it? I’m not really concerned about the system having a battery backup since I don’t use it.
Drax
How 'bout some pictures, or can you tell us of ANY markings on the box… brand/model/serial number/anything.
Otherwise, go and ask the landlord.
The battery would eventually run down, rendering any functions that it provides powerless. Be very careful about this. The alarm system in my house, for instance, also handles smoke/fire alarms.
Do you have internet phone service, like Vontage? They have a 911 battery back up.
Can you trace the wires to the mystery box and find out where they lead?
If you can trace the wire from this thing to the box it connects to, you may be able to open it and find the back up battery and disconnect it. If the alarm is still active, unplugging it will transmit trouble to the monitoring company.