Replacing Appliances After a Fire or Flood, Is It Necessary?
A flood or fire in the home can cause irreparable damage to appliances. Even after the fire is out or the water has been removed, it is possible that the electronic components of the appliances were damaged. High labor and repair costs often make more sense to replace these altogether.
When Returning to Your Home After a Flood, Use Caution with Appliances
After a flood in the home your appliances may have shifted slightly as a result of the water. This can cause the electrical or gas lines to become damaged or out of place. It is a good idea to have a professional look at the appliances before turning them on again. A trained technician can inspect the appliances for internal damage that may go unseen by the homeowner.
Even after the appliance has dried out, turning on the unit can cause the item to short circuit. This can often be caused by some moisture still in the electric components of the appliance. The sudden surge of electricity can even cause physical damage to the homeowner.
Soot Can Leave Lasting Damage for Appliances
The flames may be out and the smoke has dissipated, but the soot left behind can still cause lasting damage to appliances. This burned residue often covers everything in the home after a fire. While the outside of the appliance can be cleaned easily enough, if the soot has entered the electrical components through vents or other openings this will need to be evaluated and addressed by a professional.
When a fire or flood has extensively damaged your home, it is best to err on the side of caution with regard to your appliances. A professional like the restoration team at Soil-Away can identify the damage and the best course of action for you and your family.
If your home experiences a fire or flood, the Soil-Away team can be reached at 603-641-6555.
