Water Mitigation Procedures After a Water Heater Fails

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

A broken water heater can cause extensive water damage to a home.

Water Mitigation Procedures

A broken water heater can cause extensive water damage to a home. Hot water heaters are usually located in out-of-the-way places, such as the basement or a closet, so they can leak for days before being discovered. If you experience a failed water heater, you may want to call a water damage mitigation specialist in Blue Grass, TN, to handle the cleanup. A leaking water heater poses multiple threats, including the following.

• Electrocution: If water comes into contact with any electrical outlets, the electrical current that flows through the water can be strong enough to kill

• Water Damage: Porous materials, such as drywall or carpeting, may need to be replaced.

• Mold: Within 48 hours of flooding, mold can grow.
Cleanup after a leaking water heater involves several steps. Here is what to expect if you hire professionals to deal with the damage.

1. Assessment

Before cleanup can begin, a specialist will need to assess the situation and come up with a plan of action. If electrocution is a possibility, a specialist will know the safest way to shut down the water source and make the area safe for workers.

2. Extraction

The next step is removing the water. This is done using industrial-strength wet vacs. If the water is deep, submersible pumps may also be used. No matter how deep the flooding, this can usually be done in under a day.

3. Removal of Damaged Materials

Drywall, flooring and other porous materials damaged by the water are removed and disposed of. Materials like metal, glass and hardwood can usually be dried out and restored.

4. Drying

Industrial-strength fans and dehumidifiers are used to completely dry out the affected area. This prevents further water damage and mold growth.

5. Cleaning and Restoring

Non-porous materials are disinfected and cleaned. This guarantees the area is safe for you and your family. Any building materials that were removed are replaced.

A leaking water heater may not be discovered for days. By then, the water damage could be extensive. To keep your family safe and prevent further damage, contact a water damage mitigations specialist in Blue Grass, TN, to handle the cleanup.