A flooded basement can quickly turn into a costly disaster, especially if your furnace is located below ground level. Even a small amount of water can damage valves, circuit boards and other sensitive parts of the furnace. The extent of the damage typically depends on the water's depth and how long the furnace is exposed. In many cases, the damage is so severe that replacing the furnace becomes the only practical solution.
If your basement floods, you must take immediate action to protect your family and your furnace from further damage. For homes prone to flooding, proactive measures can safeguard your furnace. Keep reading to learn how to address furnace damage in a flooded basement and preventive tips to protect your heating system.
All electrical power should be immediately disconnected from the furnace once you learn of the flood. The gas line to the unit should also be turned off. Any furnace or water heater that has become wet should be inspected and tested by a qualified HVAC professional before turning it back on.
If the appliance has been cleared for use, it is important to immediately change the filter before engaging the unit. Wet filters will promote the growth of mould and fungi, which can compromise your home's air quality.
We recommend replacing flood-damaged furnaces instead of repairing them. Natural gas furnaces contain a number of valves and other controls that are susceptible to failure when exposed to water. While the valve may appear functional, the interior of the unit may begin to rust without showing any obvious signs of damage. Faulty valves will affect the performance of the unit and may create future reliability issues.
If the controls, burners or other critical components have been underwater, dirt, sediment and other minerals will eventually corrode the furnace. It is impractical to disassemble and clean the controls, so the long-term effect of water exposure will not be known until you run it again.
While some flooded furnaces can be rebuilt, most manufacturers do not authorize the practice. In many instances, the liability associated with restoring a flood-damaged furnace is far greater than any potential savings from salvaging the equipment.
When considering a furnace relocation or flood-proofing project, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
A flooded basement is frustrating and time-consuming to deal with. Since the safety and well-being of your family is the highest priority, err on the side of caution when deciding how to address a flood-damaged furnace. In most instances, it makes more sense to upgrade the unit for superior energy efficiency and peace of mind.
To protect your furnace from future flood damage, consider adding a sump pump and water detection system to your basement for early flood prevention and damage mitigation.
The experts at Appleby Systems can help you choose the right solution for your home or help you deal with other damaged HVAC appliances or water heaters. Contact us today to discuss your options!
