When Water and Electricity Mix

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

We all know that mixing water and electricity isn’t a good idea. In fact, if the water damage is extensive enough, the electrical wires can produce a lethal shock. But what is the full extent of the damage and dangers that come when water damage reaches your electrical wires? Are there any dangers about it that we may not know? Hunker.com has a helpful list of the effects water damage can have on your electrical wires and the systems they attach to so you can be fully aware of the dangers;

• Unexposed Wiring is typically very resistant to water and other liquids because of the plastic covering as long as the covering remains intact
• Exposed Wiring is very dangerous as it has no protective covering
• Everyday spills on electrical wires are typically on so long as the mess is cleaned quickly and the electrical wire is off
• Flooding or other types of water damage around exposed electrical wires can cause corrosion in the wire and make it dangerous to touch
• A damaged wire can send out a surge of 169 volts, seriously injuring and possibly killing someone
• Damaged wiring can also cause surges that can damage the electrical devices they are attached to
• A surge from a damaged wire can also result in an electrical fire if allowed to remain on for too long

If there is flooding or other water damage around your electrical wiring, the best course of action you can take is to turn off the electricity to the area and unplug the devices that are in danger, exposed or not. And taking the time to manually dry them quickly is perhaps not entirely necessary, but a good idea nonetheless. So keep your family and home safe and take care of those wires.

Source: https://www.hunker.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.