Is Electrical Wiring Susceptible to Water Damage?
When a home or business sustains water damage due to leaks, pipe breaks, stormwater intrusion, or other sources, one of the biggest concerns is whether or not the electrical system sustained damage. Mesquite, Texas, experts Be Happy Restoration discusses the dangers excessive water poses to residential or commercial structures and how it should be handled.
Can Flooding or Other Water Events Damage Wiring?
The short answer to this question is, yes, electrical writing is highly susceptible to water damage. In fact, any time wiring is exposed to water or even excess moisture, it can cause damage due to corrosion or mold.
Additionally, if there was any force behind the water intrusion, it could cause wires to become dislodged and exposed, creating even further hazards. Even the type of water and what the water contains, such as sewage, storm debris, or oils or chemicals it picked up in the flooding process can increase risk and damages.
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What to Do If Your Wiring is Affected By Water
If you have a water event that has the opportunity to affect wiring, the first thing to do is leave the area immediately. While it is easy to think that flooding can be easily handled, it is actually a very serious matter. Water and electricity never mix and a water-damaged electrical grid poses an incredible hazard, even to trained professionals.
Next, it is important to call professionals immediately. In addition to calling water damage mitigation experts, it is critical to call the utility company, fire department, or a licensed electrician to help disconnect the electricity completely.
Electrical Damage Needs Professional Intervention
Electrical damage caused by a water event should always be handled by a professional. An electrician can perform a full electrical inspection, find and fix the damage, and confirm if the area is safe to enter or occupy. Additionally, never plug in an appliance that has been through a flood or water damaging event as it is a serious risk of causing shock or fire. In most cases, it is best to replace the appliance, and Restoration experts can help with insurance claims for replacement.
Water-damaged wiring needs to be professionally addressed because:
- It poses a significant risk of fire. Any damage to wiring creates the risk of fire.
- It poses a risk of shock. Water is a conductor of electricity, so even standing in water near wiring can pose a risk of electrical shock. Plugging appliances such as fans or tools into water-damaged wall wiring can also lead to shock or even electrocution.
- Water-damaged wiring can also cause arcing, power surges, and other malfunctions which can cause damage to anything you plug into it.
- Water conducts electricity just as readily as wiring so even the water becomes dangerous.
Importance of Working With a Local Restoration Expert
Always take electrical damage seriously! Anyone who has the unfortunate experience of water damage should seek the help of a trusted and skilled local professional as quickly as possible. A professional has the right tools and equipment to get the job done quickly and correctly so that the home is safe for habitation. Hiring a professional also provides the opportunity to limit damages and costs, and have someone document damages for insurance purposes.
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Water Damage Restoration Services Mesquite
It is important to have an immediate response when you experience any kind of water-damaging event. If you are looking for “water damage restoration near me” look no further than the Dallas area expert, Be Happy Restoration. The company can be reached by email at: jesseh@behappyrestorationservices.com or by phone at (214) 616-9951.
