What to Do If Breaker Box Gets Wet: Safety Guide
Electric shock can cause injuries ranging from mild pain to life-threatening damage. Knowing how to handle a wet breaker box is crucial. A water-damaged electrical panel poses a serious safety risk to you and your home.
This guide outlines essential steps for dealing with a water-exposed breaker panel. We’ll cover everything from power shutdown to calling professionals.
These tips will help you safely handle minor flooding or major electrical system damage. Let’s dive into the important safety measures you need to take.
Turn Off Power and Assess the Damage
Safety is crucial when handling a wet breaker box. First, locate the main circuit breaker and switch it off immediately. This cuts off power to your home, preventing electrical hazards.
After turning off power, check for water damage. Look for water droplets, moisture, or rust on the breaker box and nearby areas. Don’t turn the power back on if you see damage or are unsure.
Locate the Main Circuit Breaker and Switch It Off
Find the main circuit breaker at the top or bottom of the electric panel. To cut off power:
- Identify the main circuit breaker switch.
- Flip the switch to the “off” position.
- Unplug small appliances, but never do so if you have to stand in water or on a damp floor.
Check for Visible Signs of Water Damage
Inspect the breaker box and surrounding areas for water damage signs, such as:
- Water droplets or moisture on the breaker box, walls, or floor
- Rust or corrosion on the breaker box or electrical components
- Water stains or discoloration on the breaker box or nearby surfaces
Do Not Attempt to Turn On Power If Water Damage Is Present
If you see water damage, don’t turn the power back on. It could lead to serious problems:
| Consequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Electrical shocks | Water and electricity create a dangerous combination that can cause severe electrical shocks or even electrocution. |
| Short circuits | Moisture can cause short circuits, damaging the breaker box and connected electrical devices. |
| Electrical fires | Wet electrical components can spark, leading to fires that can quickly spread throughout your home. |
According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical malfunctions are responsible for an estimated 13% of home fires in the United States.
Drying out a breaker box safely is key. Turn off power and check for damage. Get professional help if needed to safely restore power to your home.
Call a Professional Restoration Company
Seek expert help for a wet breaker box to safely restore power. An expert should inspect the electric panel, even without visible water damage. Professional assessment determines the best action plan.
Have an Expert Thoroughly Inspect the Electric Panel
Restoration pros have the tools to evaluate your electric panel after water exposure. They can spot hidden issues like corrosion or rust. These problems may compromise the panel’s integrity and cause electrical hazards.
Water Damage Can Cause Corrosion and Rust, Compromising the Panel’s Integrity
Even small amounts of water can cause big problems in an electric panel. Moisture leads to corrosion and rust on components over time. This weakens the structure and increases shock and fire risks.
A Professional Can Determine the Best Course of Action
After a thorough inspection, a pro can recommend the best way to restore power safely. This may involve:
- Cleaning and drying the electric panel components
- Replacing damaged or corroded parts
- Applying corrosion-resistant coatings to protect the panel from future water damage
- Upgrading to a more water-resistant electric panel
In Severe Cases, the Electric Panel May Need to Be Replaced Entirely
Sometimes, water damage is too severe to repair, especially after long submersion. In these cases, pros may suggest replacing the whole electric panel. This ensures your home’s electrical system stays safe and reliable.
Restoration experts can handle the replacement process correctly. They’ll make sure the new panel meets code and resists future water damage.
Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality restoration services, ensuring that your home’s electrical system is safe and functional following water exposure.
| Service | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Professional Inspection | Identify hidden damage and potential hazards |
| Cleaning and Drying | Remove moisture and prevent further corrosion |
| Component Replacement | Replace damaged parts to restore functionality |
| Corrosion-Resistant Coatings | Protect the panel from future water damage |
| Panel Replacement | Ensure safety and reliability in severe cases |
Conclusion
Water damage to your breaker box is a serious issue. It needs immediate attention. If your electric panel is wet, follow this safety guide to protect your home and family.
What to do if breaker box gets wet is crucial. Turn off the power, assess the damage, and call a professional restoration company.
Handling a wet electric panel without expert help is dangerous. It can cause electrical shocks, fires, or more damage to your home’s electrical system.
A professional can inspect your panel and identify the extent of water damage. They’ll determine the best action, which may include replacing the entire electric panel.
To prevent future water damage, schedule regular maintenance with a certified electrician. They can spot and fix potential issues before they become big problems.
Keep your electric panel in a dry, well-ventilated area. This helps reduce the risk of water damage. Follow this safety guide to protect your home from wet breaker box dangers.
