What to do When Appliances Leak

Appliance leaks are disasters no homeowner wishes to encounter. However, they’re impossible to avoid. Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators are household items that are used constantly, so there will come a time when they may experience damage and eventually break down.

If your appliances leak, you only have a limited amount of time to minimize the damage. If you act quickly, your home can be spared from water damage that can affect both your home and health.

If you’ve had trouble keeping appliance leak damage under control in the past, now is a good time to learn a few preventive measures, so you can be prepared the next time this disaster arises. Here are the following steps you should take if you have an appliance leak:

Step 1: Shut off Water to the Appliance

To stop a flood from spreading, shut off the water to the damaged appliance. If that isn’t possible, shut off your home’s main water supply. Once you’ve cut off your water source, your appliance will eventually stop leaking.

Step 2: Turn off Energy Supply

If you spot a leak near electrical outlets and devices, it’s best to turn off the electricity from your fuse/breaker. Cutting your energy ensures that no one in your property gets electrocuted and your other appliances won’t short-circuit.

Step 3: Call the Professionals

The moment you’ve stopped the leak and turned off the electricity, call your local appliance leak specialist and electrician as soon as possible. Contacting the experts early prevents your property from getting damaged even further. Most emergency services are available 24/7, so don’t hesitate to give them a call.

Step 4: Move Your Belongings and Protect Your Furniture

While waiting for help to arrive, you can start moving your belongings and furniture away from the flood. Appliance leaks can cause a great deal of damage, especially when items that are made from organic materials are affected. Floodwater can weaken the composition of wood and fabric, as well as encourage mold growth. If your belongings are heavily soaked in water, they need to undergo repairs and remediation.

Step 5: Clean as much of the Affected Area as You Can

To avoid creating more water damage, clean as much of the contaminated areas as you can. Use towels or mops to soak up the water, and you can also use a wet/dry shop vacuum to pull water out of your carpets. Take note, that you should only use the vacuum if your predicament permits you to use electricity. If the mess is impossible to clean with normal cleaning techniques, let your local restoration company handle the task.

Step 6: Dry the Surroundings

After you’re done removing the water, dry the areas to get rid of the remaining liquid. To speed up the drying process, you can turn on your fans and/or dehumidifier. Only use these appliances if your situation doesn’t require you to turn off your power supply.

With these steps memorized and taken to heart, you’ll be ready for the next appliance leak disaster that arises.

If you’re in need of a professional restoration company in Southeast Idaho, that can handle your appliance leak disaster, contact All American Cleaning today. We offer a complete and reliable appliance leak cleanup service that’s available 24/7. We use state-of-the-art equipment and tried-and-tested cleaning techniques to restore your property back to its healthy and safe condition. Give us a call at 208-203-1512 for a free estimate.