Heating, Comfort Cooling and
Refrigeration Equipment Safety Hazards Due to Flooding
(Winnipeg) -- With the amount of snowfall and
moisture that fell this winter could jeopardize the very equipment
that is designed to keep us cool and comfortable in summer, warm
and dry in winter and preserve our food. Water from flooding,
seepage and sewage will most likely create a healthy environment
for bacteria, rust and corrosion resulting in an unhealthy one
for heating, comfort cooling and refrigeration systems.
- "Product warranty does not cover failures due to flooding
and that any work done to these appliances should be performed
by experienced and qualified service technicians." said Brian
Baker, President of Custom Vac Limited
- "DO NOT STARTUP HEATING, COMFORT COOLING OR REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT THAT HAS BEEN EXPOSED TO FLOOD WATERS! SERIOUS DAMAGE AND LIFE-THREATENING INJURY CAN OCCUR!"
- DO NOT attempt to start any heating, comfort
cooling or refrigeration equipment that was flooded. Be certain
that all electrical power has been disconnected. This should
be done at the main service panel located at the electrical
entrance to the home. Be sure to set the thermostat in the off
position. "SERIOUS DAMAGE AND LIFE-THREATENING INJURY
CAN OCCUR" if this advice is not followed.
- CONTACT A QUALIFIED Heating, Air Conditioning
or Refrigeration Service Company to inspect the condition of
your appliances before power is restored. "Don't hesitate to
ask them to show you their certification, qualification and/or
trade licenses," said Baker.
- CONTACT YOUR PROPERTY INSURANCE COMPANY to
determine your insurance coverage for the repair and/or replacement
equipment or parts. Flood damage to the heating, comfort cooling
or refrigeration equipment probably will not be covered by any
product warranty that you may have on the equipment.
- REPAIR COSTS TO RESTORE any heating, comfort
cooling or refrigeration equipment that has been exposed to
flood waters probably will be extensive. "Manufacturers are
recommending that all motors, electrical components, safety
controls, and gas valves be replaced, and that a detailed and
through cleaning of the coils, heat exchangers, vents, and gas
train components be performed," said Baker.
- REPLACEMENT OF THE ENTIRE UNIT may be your best option. Several manufacturers recommend that all furnaces that have been submerged by floodwaters be replaced. Make sure the qualified service technician gives you separate estimates for the replacement and for the restoration of your equipment. "Be certain that if you replace your heating, comfort cooling or refrigeration equipment the contractor includes in his proposal the reclamation of all CFC's or HCFC's prior to removal or replacement of the equipment," said Baker.
Consumers wanting more information about heating, comfort cooling and refrigeration equipment can contact Energy and Mines, Energy Conservation Dept. or contact the local CMHC office and ask for their booklet on flood clean up procedures.
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