How To Clean Up Water After an Appliance Leak

There’s no room for delay when an appliance starts to leak. A minor leak can quickly escalate to severe water damage that would cost a fortune to fix.

However, trying to clean up water after an appliance leak isn’t as simple as it may sound. Doing it wrong could only aggravate the problem.

Swift Restoration & Remodeling has a reputation for providing top-quality water damage restoration services in Ogden, UT. Their proficient technicians know what it takes to clean up water after an appliance leak to prevent structural damage and other adverse effects. Here, they highlight the important steps to follow when it comes to water cleanup after an appliance leak. 

Safety First!

When an appliance starts leaking, human and property safety should be the first things to come to mind. Shutting off the water supply and electrical systems will help protect the property against damage. It’ll also ensure the safety of everyone.

Wearing personal protection equipment before starting the cleanup process is also paramount. Appliance leaks often spread contaminated gray water. So, it’s important to wear rubber boots, gloves, dust masks, eye protection, and other protective gear.

Document and Move

Taking pictures before starting the cleanup process is advisable if the property owner is considering filing a homeowners insurance claim. The adjuster may use the documentation as proof of damage. 

After taking enough pictures and videos, move stuff out of the way to ensure minimal distraction during cleanup. Some items will even dry more quickly when placed outside!

Take Out Water

Water extraction methods will depend on the extent of the appliance leak. Take a damp floor, for example; a mop or clean towel would do an excellent job.

However, a wet floor or area with standing water may need a wet-dry vacuum cleaner for the best results.

Clean & Disinfect

Water leaking from an appliance is usually contaminated. So, cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces is paramount. Here’s how to clean up water and disinfect the affected areas:

• Scrub the surfaces with a low-sudsing detergent. 
• Disinfect non-porous surfaces with a bleach and water solution. 
• Disinfect the rest of the areas with a product formulated for porous surfaces. 

Dry Out the Surfaces

After cleaning and disinfection, the next step is to set up drying equipment. This includes opening windows and setting up huge fans to create cross-currents of fresh air. 

Also, there should be a dehumidifier in the middle of the room. The drying equipment should run 24/7 for two to three days for the best results. 

Examine, Repair, and Replace

After ensuring everything is dry, it’s time to inspect the property for any signs of structural damage and mold growth. Is the drywall intact or torn apart? Are there signs of mold on floors, carpets, and padding?

Water-damaged materials may require repair or replacement. A qualified water damage restoration professional can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. 

Call a Professional for Restoration Services

Repair and restoration after an appliance leak can be expensive. Many opt to carry out the process on their own to save a few bucks. However, without the necessary skills and equipment, this can lead to more damage, translating to more money spent on repairs and replacements. 

Hiring a certified and experienced professional is the way to go when it comes to tackling water damage. Professionals have the know-how and tools to clean up the water quickly and efficiently without causing any further damage. 

Struggling With Water Damage After an Appliance Leak in Ogden, UT? Swift Restoration & Remodeling Can Help!

Tackling water damage after an appliance leak involves much more than just extracting the water. The process includes documenting the damage, moving items, water extraction, cleaning and disinfection, and repair, among other activities. All these can be overwhelming, but hiring a restoration professional can make the process less stressful. 

Swift Restoration & Remodeling is the go-to for all water damage restoration needs in Ogden and the surrounding areas. Here are some of the reasons to choose this company:

• Locally owned and operated company with years of experience serving the Ogden, UT community
• Advanced equipment and industry-proven restoration techniques
• IICRC-certified technicians committed to providing top-notch services
• On-call services 24/7 to handle water damage emergencies
• 100% satisfaction guarantee

Swift Restoration and Remodeling will work with the client’s insurance provider to ensure speedy and efficient claim processing. 

Need a reliable restoration expert to clean up water after an appliance leak? Give Swift Restoration & Remodeling a call at (385) 412-8633 or fill out their online form to get a free quote today!