Do I Need To Replace My Water Heater and Furnace After a Flood?

After last week's massive downpour in Dubuque and around the Tri-state area we wanted to share some answers to some of the frequently asked questions. The main one we have been answering is, "Do I need to replace my water heater and furnace after they have been flooded?"

Here are some highlights from the Serviceguard page from Black Hills Energy:

Q: My furnace and water heater were flooded. What happens to them?A: If your furnace or water heater were submerged in floodwaters, they will need to be inspected by a licensed contractor or other qualified service technician before service is restored.

You may have to replace your furnaces gas valve and all electrical controls, wiring, motors and safety components. However, it may be cheaper to replace the furnace than to purchase and replace the separate components.

You may also need to replace your water heater, whether it’s gas or electric. Water heater gas valves and the internal wiring in electric models can be costly, and often times may exceed the cost of a new water heater. Corrosion can also attack relief valves, which may “freeze” shut or continuously leak. Additionally, the floodwater may have damaged the internal insulation around the water heater tank causing corrosion and failure of the water tank.

Q: I only had a few inches of water in my basement. Do I still need to replace my furnace and water heater?
A: A licensed contractor or other qualified service technician will need to inspect your heating equipment for possible damage as well as check your gas service line for water before it will be placed back into service.

Q: Replacing a furnace and water heater is expensive. Why can’t I just let the equipment dry out and then use it?
A: Your appliances and heating equipment are all protected by safety components. These components as well as the gas valves, motors and wiring are prone to corrosion and failure after they have been subjected to the silt and other contaminates contained in flood water. These contaminates cannot be removed by merely washing them off. The Gas Appliance Manufacturer’s Association sets national specifications for the manufacture of all gas heating and cooking appliances and GAMA states that flooded equipment should be replaced and NOT repaired.

To get a FREE estimate on any of your flooded aplliances like water heaters or furnaces please call us at 563-556-0666.  Our comfort advisor Robb will be more than happy to help you out.