The short answer
Assess the Damage First
Start by checking what got wet. For electronics, the key factor is whether water reached the internal components. If a device was submerged, even briefly, moisture can cause corrosion and short circuits. For appliances like washers or refrigerators, the motor and wiring are the vulnerable parts.
Look for visible water inside or a musty smell. If the item was in floodwater that contained sewage or chemicals, treat it as contaminated. In that case, the pros may advise disposal for porous items. For hard surfaces, thorough cleaning and drying might be enough.
For a quick reference, here is what usually can be saved:
- Metal tools and hand tools, after cleaning and oiling
- Hard plastic items, after washing with soap and water
- Sealed electronic devices, if water did not get inside
- Large appliances, if dried and inspected by a professional
- Furniture with metal or plastic frames, after thorough drying
- Documents, if dried carefully using a fan or dehumidifier
Dry Everything Quickly
Time works against you. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in warm, humid conditions. In a hot, dry climate like yours, you still need to move fast. Open windows, use fans, and run a dehumidifier to pull moisture out of the air.
For items too large to move, like a built-in oven, the pros can use structural drying equipment to dry out the surrounding walls and floors. That helps prevent hidden moisture from damaging the equipment over time.
If you have items that are too large to move, like a built-in oven, the pros can use structural drying equipment to dry out the surrounding walls and floors. That helps prevent hidden moisture from damaging the equipment over time.
Clean and Disinfect Properly
Floodwater often carries bacteria and other contaminants. For any item you plan to keep, wash it with a mild detergent and clean water. For hard surfaces, a disinfectant can help kill germs. Wear gloves and a mask while cleaning to protect yourself.
For porous items like upholstered furniture or mattresses, water can soak deep inside. Even after drying, they may hold odors or mold. The pros can sometimes clean these with specialized equipment, but if the water was sewage, replacement is often safer. Use your judgment and your nose.
If you feel unwell after handling flood-damaged items, see a doctor. Your health comes first.
Check with Your Insurer
Your home insurance policy may help pay for damaged equipment, but it depends on your coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Flood damage is often a separate policy, so check your documents. If you have flood insurance, it might cover the cost of repair or replacement.
Take photos of everything before you move or throw anything away. Keep a list of damaged items and their approximate age. That helps when you file a claim. Your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damage, so do not discard anything until they have seen it.
If you are unsure about a claim, ask your insurer directly. They can tell you what documentation they need.
When to Call the Pros
Some equipment is too complex or dangerous to handle on your own. High-voltage appliances, gas-powered tools, or items with sealed refrigerant lines need professional attention. The pros have the tools and knowledge to safely inspect, clean, and test equipment after a flood.
For large-scale damage, such as a flooded utility room with a furnace or water heater, do not attempt to restart it yourself. The pros can assess the situation and recommend the right course of action. They can also help with water extraction and drying to prevent further damage.
Need help right now?
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I salvage a wet laptop?
Maybe, if you act fast. Turn it off, remove the battery, and dry it with a fan for at least 48 hours. Do not turn it on until it is completely dry. If water got inside the screen or keyboard, it may be beyond repair. A professional can sometimes recover data from the hard drive.
How long does it take for mold to grow on wet equipment?
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in warm, humid conditions. That is why you need to dry everything quickly. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. If you see visible mold, clean it with a disinfectant and dry the item thoroughly to prevent it from returning.
Is it safe to use a flooded microwave?
No, do not use a microwave that has been submerged in water. Water can damage the internal components and create a fire or shock hazard. Have it inspected by a professional before using it again. If the microwave was in contaminated water, it is safer to replace it.