Pure Water is Healthy Water

If you've had a water heater malfunction in your home that has caused a leak, you might need to make major repairs to water damaged areas that were affected. Unfortunately, water damage can be detrimental to a home and take considerable time and effort to remedy.

The following are a few tips on how homeowners can handle water damage and get repairs taken care of in their homes as quickly and affordably as possible:

• Respond immediately- The sooner you stop a leak and get rid of the resulting moisture, the less water damage there will be in your home. As soon as leaks occur, you need to get things dry. You can dry out the wet area by mopping, opening windows and doors, running fans, and running a dehumidifier. 
• File an insurance claim- You should immediately contact your insurance company and begin documenting water damage. According to statistics, water damage is the second most common insurance claim in the United States. You will hopefully be compensated for losses associated with water damage if you have homeowner's insurance. 
• Have electrical wiring inspected- Don't overlook safety issues by focusing too much attention on saving possessions. Water heater leaks could be dangerous if they damage electrical wiring. Disconnect any electronic items near the leak. You should also have your wiring inspected by a technician to make sure that it's safe. 
• Disinfect- Cleaning up leaked water shouldn't just involve drying out the affected area out. You should also disinfect to prevent bacterial growth and the development of mold and mildew. 
• Look out for mold and mildew growth- If mold or mildew begin to grow because of the excess moisture, you could have some serious problems. Certain types of mold- such as stachybotrys chartarum- can produce substances that are toxic and threaten the health of members of your household. 
• Make sure the damaged area is structurally sound- Moisture can weaken plaster, drywall, wood, and many materials in your home that provide structural support. It's a good idea to consult with a technician regarding any potential structural problems that may have been caused by a water heater leak. 
• Contact a restoration company- If water damage in your home is extensive, you may need to resort to the services of a restoration company. Professional restorers will remove water, dry and dehumidify, clean and sanitize, and restore any damaged areas in your home. If your homeowner's insurance covers water damage, it should pay for professional restoration services. 

Talk to your local plumber, such as Brother's Plumbing, for more advice.