Electrical Equipment and Floods, What To Do?

We know that water and electrical equipment don’t mix well. But what happens when circumstances beyond our control get in the way of a functioning electricity grid?

Civic Recycling was on the front lines of the 2013 flood in Calgary. We helped countless businesses get back online after the water ruined electrical equipment such as breakers, motors, transformers and fuses. We are proud to be there for Canadians in tough times and at all times.

Floods and Electrical Equipment

So what do you do if you find yourself in a flood situation? Whether its a sewer backup, huge rainfall in your area or a more widespread catastrophe like in 2013…you should know how to stay safe when returning home. Read how to Minimize Electrical Hazards Before and After a Flood.

“Moisture, debris and contaminants in flood-damaged equipment or appliances can sometimes be hidden and cause serious risks.”

For more safety tips, read more from Municipal Affairs Alberta: Electrical Tips for Returning to Your Home or Business After a Flood.

“The inspection of your electric service begins at the service entrance and proceeds through the meter base, main switch panelboards and branch circuit breakers. This basic equipment must be safe before reconnecting the power. Electric circuit breakers, GFCIs, and fuses that have been submerged must also be replaced. Water and silt inside the devices can prevent them from performing properly as safety devices and can cause electrical shorts or mechanical malfunctions.”

The British Columbia Safety Authority also released a great PDF on post-flood protocol: Emergency Flood Protocol for Re-Energizing Electrical and Gas Equipment.

“For customer services, the breakers only need replacement if the rest of the panel has been cleaned, dried, connections redone, and has been meggared clear to ground. Note that wetted molded-case circuit breakers cannot be reused.”