Facing a Flooded Washing Machine: Immediate Steps A typical home washing machine can contain up to 30 gallons of water for each cycle. Even efficient models can hold between 10 to 20 gallons. If there's a malfunction, this water could end up pooling in your home. If you're away or unaware when this happens, the consequences can be severe. Materials and possessions quickly soak up water, and waterlogged items often need to be discarded to ward off mold.
When a washing machine overflows, the aftermath can be swift and damaging. A blocked pipe or a ruptured supply line could be the culprits behind such an unfortunate incident. This could leave your laundry area, and potentially other parts of your home, inundated. Immediate action is vital to limit the fallout. Once you've secured the area, it's crucial to bring in experts who specialize in water damage restoration to revert your home to its pristine state. Here's a guide on how to respond if your washing machine causes a flood.
Should you face a washing machine overflow, here's a clear course of action:
Disconnect the Power Safely Remember that water and electricity are a perilous combination. If you can, disconnect the power to the malfunctioning washing machine immediately. But be cautious: do not hit the “Cancel” button on the appliance as it might start the draining process, exacerbating the flooding. Also, yanking the power cord directly exposes you to the risk of an electrical shock. Instead, switch off the power from the main circuit breaker or fuse box.
Empty the Washing Machine Your next move should be to extract any wet laundry from the machine. The process might vary based on your machine type. If you own a traditional top-loading machine, simply lift the lid and take out the wet garments. For front-loaders, the door might be locked. To unlock, you might need to adjust the timer knob. Always refer to the machine's manual for precise instructions. Once retrieved, drain the soaked clothes and let them air dry until your machine is fixed or replaced.
Assess the Damage The damage from the flood depends on various factors, such as water quantity, the flooring in your laundry room, and the items nearby. There's a possibility that water has seeped into walls or underfloor, making them feel mushy. Ensure that you check for damage thoroughly and communicate your findings to your water restoration service provider.
Engage a Water Restoration Specialist Quick action is the best defense against escalating water damage. Many items, from apparel to furnishings, can be salvaged if extracted from water promptly. Minimize damage by hiring a professional water restoration service to gauge the damage and conduct necessary repairs and mold control. Remember, mold can sprout in as little as 48 hours post-water damage. Initiating the restoration early safeguards your belongings and property.
Consult with Skilled Water Damage Repair Experts While no one anticipates a washing machine calamity, they aren't uncommon and can lead to significant damage. To minimize harm, it's a good idea to have a reliable water restoration service like Kingsley, LLC, at the ready.
