The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) said no major flooding occurred as a result of the recent rainfall, where the Waterloo area saw a month’s worth of rainfall in just a few days. While we were able to get through the severe weather without major damage, we have many summer rainstorms ahead of us and it’s important to prepare your home for emergencies and take steps to protect your HVAC System.
Emergency Preparedness Week
Fittingly, we’re currently in the middle of Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week). This is an annual event, coordinated by Public Safety Canada, to ensure that Canadians take steps to protect themselves during emergencies.
Take some precautions before a flood hits to reduce the amount of damage to your home, property and HVAC system:
- Install a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains.
- Ensure important documents are stored somewhere safe and not in the basement.
- Turn off basement furnaces and outside gas valves prior to a storm warning.
After a Flood
If you sustain basement flooding as a result of heavy rain, ensure you take the proper safety precautions before attempting to use your HVAC system.
Wait Until the Water Clears – Allow the water to recede before attempting to enter your basement to assess any damage. There are many electrical components in basements, so it’s safer to wait until there isn’t any water present before venturing downstairs.
Schedule an Inspection – If any of your HVAC equipment was flooded, have the unit inspected by a professional technician before attempting to turn it on. Water can damage sensitive components inside your furnace or water tank that create safety hazards or cause a complete breakdown. Additionally, contaminated water, bacteria and debris could be found on various HVAC components and it would need to be professionally cleaned and disinfected before using.
Contact Your Insurance – If your HVAC system was seriously damaged, contact your insurance company to determine what they recommend in terms of repairing vs. replacing your equipment. Although flood-damaged furnaces or water heaters may be repaired, many manufacturers and insurance companies mandate replacement, as the liability for repair is too high.
Delta Air Systems has been in the business of improving the environmental quality in homes since the 1950s.
Schedule a service call online today for professional HVAC care—we’re here to help.