An electrician must check before you reconnect after floods
The four-page document includes valuable information on how to treat flood-damaged electrical equipment, what flood affected installations need testing, dealing with conductive building material and ensuring solar panel systems are safe.
A quick reference chart is also included for troubleshooting electrical problems, including how to deal with flood-affected power sockets, air-conditioners, pool pumps, electrical appliances and cables.
Master Electricians Australia Spokesperson Andrew Bailey said the factsheet is a must-read for anyone who was, or knows someone who was, impacted by recent floods.
“As we stress in the factsheet, if your home or business has been flood-affected, you need to contact an Accredited Master Electrician or licensed electrical contractor to check the whole installation before reconnecting electricity supply to the property,” Mr Bailey said.
“We recommend replacing any power sockets, light switches and electrical cables that were submerged in flood waters as there is a high risk of shorting causing fire or electric shock.
“Elements of the switchboard – including circuit breakers, safety switches, relays and contactors – will usually need to be replaced,” he said.
Silt deposits left in systems after the flood event is over will remain even after the water has dried up, and pose a threat to the health of residents in future.
“We understand many homeowners will want to use their air conditioning units soon after returning home, but they must be inspected by an accredited air conditioning mechanic and an electrician before use. Replacement is highly recommended due to contamination and health issues.
“Similarly, before using the hot water system, it must be tested by a professional and the water contained in it must also be inspected.
“We also want to emphasise that it is unsafe to use any electrical appliances like televisions, DVD players and stereos before they have been tested.”
Mr Bailey urged homeowners who required a major rewiring of their properties to take the opportunity to install a safety switch on every circuit.
“A safety switch is a relatively inexpensive device that saves lives across Australia every day, but unfortunately very few homes are fully protected,” he said.
“Our research has shown around 15 Australians are killed each year and 300 are hospitalised in electrical accidents in Australian homes which could have been prevented if safety switches were fitted.
“To achieve maximum protection, you need a safety switch on every circuit of every home. This means hot water, lighting, air-conditioning and oven and stove – not just power points.
“Homeowners are encouraged to introduce safety switches to their homes as another way to protect their loved ones as they begin the road to recovery after floods.”
Click the Flood Crisis Centre link on the Master Electricians homepage at www.masterelectricians.com.au to download the Flood Repair Factsheet. You can book a Master Electrician online or by calling 1300 889 198.
