HONOLULU -- It is possible that Sunday's power outage from the earthquake caused thousands of dollars in damage in spoiled food or damaged electronics.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is required by the state to compensate customers for damage due to power interruptions. However, the rule includes a loophole, which means claims are usually denied, KITV reported.

"Immediately after I put the computer on, I heard 'pop, pop, pop,' coming from the tower of the computer," Makiki resident Nadine Kunishima said.

It happened despite taking precautions and after power was restored, Kunishima said.

Because she is disabled, her computer kept her connected to friends and stored precious letters and family photos, Kunishima said. She said she cannot afford a new one.

"I live on a set income and I will never get another computer, never," Kunishima said.

Her hope is in filing a claim, asking HECO to pay for the damage. However, the state's power interruption rule says the company is not liable for damage due to accident, storm, fire, strikes, riots, war or any other cause not within the company's control. An earthquake probably fits the category, KITV reported.

Records show the company denies more claims than it pays. Last year, 324 were paid out of more than 700 claims. The company rejected two-thirds of the claims in 2004. HECO approved about 500 of 900 in 2003.

The company said it welcomes claims, but made no promises.

"We will evaluate each claim on a case-by-case basis," HECO spokesman Jose Dizon said.

Kunishima said she is not getting her hopes up.

"Today I just felt totally lost," she said.

Officials suggest getting receipts and other documents although HECO said they are not required. The claim must be filed within 30 days. (Get phone numbers.)