Restoring Water-Damaged Electronics and Appliances

Water damage can leave many beloved household contents damaged beyond repair. In fact, many people believe that a water leak or flood is a death sentence for their expensive electronics and appliances. After all, everyone knows that electricity and water don’t mix. 

However, there is hope for those homeowners wishing to salvage their new TV or washing machine. With the help of a trained and experienced restoration crew, they may be able to complete a water damage repair Columbia, MO. Columbia homeowners are encouraged to keep reading this guide so that they can learn more about how to recover water-damaged electronics and appliances.

How to Safely Handle Water-Damaged Electronics

Since there is always a risk of electric shock when electricity and water combine, it’s important that homeowners prioritize their safety and take specific precautions when handling their electronics after a water intrusion. However, proper handling is important not just for the safety of the person handling the item. It’s also crucial that the electronics be handled with care to avoid further damage.

Shut off Power

The most important step to take for safe handling is stopping power to the device. In many cases, it’s best to shut off all power in the affected area so that homeowners can safely walk through the water. At a minimum, power to the device should be shut off. By removing the power, homeowners can prevent injury or a short circuit.

Remove Batteries

Any items that run on a lithium battery should be taken care of right away. When exposed to water, the batteries die immediately and the alkaline elements in the electronics can start to have a bad reaction that could leave the phone or laptop damaged beyond repair.

Steps to Take to Salvage Waterlogged Appliances

After homeowners have taken steps to protect themselves and their devices, they should start the salvage process. While there is no guarantee that the following steps will restore a waterlogged appliance or electronic, homeowners can greatly increase their chances by taking the following actions.

Flush the Electronics with Water

It may sound counterintuitive to use water to clean a waterlogged electronic, but large electronics and appliances have been found to benefit from this treatment. Using clean water to flush the devices can help to remove any harmful salt, minerals, or debris. In fact, it’s unlikely that these larger appliances will suffer any more damage from the rinse. If homeowners are dealing with smaller electronics, this step can be skipped as they are unlikely to benefit from additional water.

Clean Corroded Areas

In cases where electronics are treated right away, there may be little to no corrosion, but if the device was exposed to water for a significant length of time, it may need to be cleaned. Oftentimes, the corrosion occurs inside the device and can appear as a green crust around metal connections for batteries and charging ports. It can be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol, which also aids in water evaporation.

Thoroughly Dry the Electronic

To prevent further damage, homeowners should also take steps to make sure that the device is completely dry. Cool air can be used, but heat should never be applied. Instead, experts recommend that homeowners try to shake out as much water as possible and follow up with a dry cloth. 

If the homeowner is tech-savvy, they may be able to remove some panels to help dry the inside more effectively. After the device has been dried completely, it is safe to attempt to power it back on.

Read About - How To Deal With Water Damage After An Appliance Leak

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional to Assess Complex Electronics

It’s important to note that there is still a chance that an electronic or appliance can be salvaged even if the above steps didn’t seem to help with the water damage repair. Columbia water damage companies have access to specialized tools that allow them to restore water-damaged electronics. 

In fact, there are several added benefits of working with a professional in the first place. Homeowners should consider hiring a water damage contractor for the following reasons: 

• Reduced Risk of Shock
• Safe and Secure Storage Facilities
• Ability to Handle Multiple Electronics
• Fast & Effective Methods
• Insurance Claims Assistance

Read About - Tips For Choosing The Right Water Damage Company

Find out More About the Process of Restoring Electronics and Appliances After Water Damage

There are even more benefits to hiring a professional for water damage repair. Columbia homeowners should contact ABC Environmental Contracting Services in Columbia to see how their experienced professionals can restore electronics and appliances. They can be reached by phone or through their convenient online quote form. Best of all, the technicians are available for 24/7 water damage cleanups, so customers can contact them as soon as a loss occurs!