Handling Your Appliances After a Flood

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Do not use air conditioning after a flood because it could spread mold throughout the vents.

The process of cleaning up after a flood requires many considerations and decisions to be made. While it is tempting to salvage everything that was damaged, it is important to handle belongings safely and correctly in order to preserve their life.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A FLOOD

Appliances are some of the most expensive items in a home, so it makes sense that they are one of the things that homeowners are most concerned with salvaging. Here is what you need to know about handling your appliances after a flood in a safe manner. 

1. Get a Professional Inspection

The electrical components of an appliance can get severely damaged in a flood, so attempting to dry appliances and turn them back on can result in shocks and short-circuiting. If appliances have been in a water-filled room, the best course of action is to unplug them immediately once the water recedes and obtain the inspection of a qualified technician to determine the next steps.

2. Do Not Use the AC

Because of how quickly mold can grow within a HVAC unit, your air conditioning system could spread mold throughout the home's vents if it is turned on. A restoration service with HVAC and mold expertise should perform an inspection before the system is restored. 

3. Inspect the Refrigerator and Freezer.

The insulation of a refrigerator and freezer dry out slowly, meaning mold could be growing within the walls. If the insulation has gotten wet, you might be at risk for mold growth. Check with the manufacturer's booklet to determine where the insulation is located on your unit in order to know if it has been submerged or not.

4. Replace Water Filters

If the flood has disrupted the clean water supply, the water lines and ice maker in the refrigerator have been exposed to contaminants. Change the water filter and discard of any already-made ice within the bin before sanitizing it and returning it to use.

If your home has been through a flood, SERVPRO of Piscataway is here to help you! We are experts in water and flood damage, and you can call us 24/7 with your damages at 732-752-4445.