After a flood in Vancouver,WA

[Kyle_K]

For more information, contact: Cody

Dan's Top Notch Heating & Cooling

360-835-9364

Re-Release Date: 9/10/2019

After a Flood, Take Precautions Before Starting Heating and Cooling Equipment

Vancouver, WA - After a flood that effects the furnace or outdoor unit homeowners need to take several precautions before attempting to salvage or restart heating and cooling equipment.

"Its important to remember not to immediately restart heating and cooling equipment
after a flood because in can be dangerous and could cause further damage," said
Cody, Manager of Dan's Top Notch Heating & Cooling in Washougal, WA. "Water affects
electrical equipment and machinery in several ways. For example, water will short-out
electrical equipment if electricity is on when water reaches it. This is one of the many
reasons why it is best to have a qualified service technician inspect your heating and
cooling equipment before it is started up after a flood."

Homeowners should not be too anxious to get things back to normal after a storm
because improper maintenance and preparation can cause problems years later.

To ensure your safety and prevent further damage to equipment, you should take the
following steps after a flood before power is reestablished in your neighborhood:

1)   Turn off all electrical switches (i.e. disconnects and breakers) to the heating and cooling equipment.
2)   Don't start equipment until you have it inspected and serviced by a qualified heating and cooling contractor. After the storm, have a reputable electrician or a technician from the power company or city inspect your homes internal wiring to make sure its dry and safe before power is reestablished to your home.

3)   If the power company gives you approval to turn on the electricity in your home, have the service company disconnect the equipment from the electrical source if you have not done so already.

4)   Use only reputable service companies. "A lot of unscrupulous companies can descend on disaster areas. Be careful. If necessary, go without service a little longer to make sure you get what you pay for," Cody said.



Homeowners should also be aware that the following factors will determine if their heating and cooling equipment is salvageable or needs to be replaced:

1)   The amount of time the equipment was underwater
2)   Whether the electricity was on when the water flooded the unit
3)   If the equipment is filled with dirt and debris

To find out more about protecting your heating and cooling equipment after a flood, call Dan's Top Notch Heating & Cooling at 360-835-9364.  or toll free (800) 580-2550 Dan's Top Notch Heating & Cooling
was established in 1993 and services the pacific northwest.
   
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