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Hurricane Helene: What to Do with Your Appliances after a Storm

  • Read Time: 6 minutes

Have you wondered what to do with your appliances after Hurricane Helene or any other hurricane event?

After such a severe storm, many homeowners in Greenville, SC are left questioning whether their appliances are safe to use. Should you plug them back in immediately, or wait for an inspection?

Let’s break down how to safely handle your appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, and stoves after a storm, and avoid further damage or costly repairs.

Knowing what’s going on at your home.

After Hurricane Helene, it’s crucial to inspect your appliances for any signs of damage. Water exposure, power surges, and gas leaks can make some appliances hazardous to use.

In this article, we’ll cover practical steps for checking your appliances, how to protect them from future storms, and when to call in a professional for repairs.

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Summary

  • Unplug and inspect all appliances before using them post-storm.
  • Flooded or water-exposed appliances should be dried and checked by a professional.
  • Install surge protectors and elevate appliances in flood-prone areas.
  • Don’t hesitate to call a technician if your appliance shows signs of damage.
  • Regular maintenance is essential for future storm preparedness.

Why Taking Care of Appliances After a Hurricane is Essential

After a storm like Hurricane Helene, your home appliances may have been exposed to various dangers. Water damage, power surges, and gas leaks are all risks. Plugging them in without inspection can lead to electrical shorts, further damage, or even fires.

By taking a few preventive steps, you can avoid expensive repairs, improve the safety of your home, and keep your appliances running smoothly. Now, let’s go over specific appliances and what to do with them after a storm.

hurricane helene flooded kitchen

Handling Major Appliances After a Hurricane

Refrigerator

  • Concern: Is my refrigerator safe to use after a power outage and potential flooding?
  • Steps to Take:
    • First, unplug the refrigerator and check for water damage inside and around it.
    • Throw out any perishable food if the power was off for an extended period.
    • Dry the interior and check for any unusual smells or leaks.
  • Prevention Tip: Consider placing your refrigerator on a raised platform to avoid flood damage in the future.
hurricane helene damaged refrigerator

Washing Machine

  • Concern: Can I use my washing machine after it was exposed to water during the storm?
  • Steps to Take:
    • Unplug the machine and inspect the control panel and hoses for water damage.
    • If there’s water inside, drain it carefully.
    • Do not use the washer if any internal parts got wet—call a professional.
  • Prevention Tip: Elevate your washing machine to prevent future water damage.

Dryer

  • Concern: Should I turn on my dryer if it was exposed to storm water?
  • Steps to Take:
    • Ensure the dryer is fully dry before even considering using it.
    • Inspect the motor and control panel for any signs of moisture.
    • If you have a gas dryer, make sure there are no gas leaks before operating.
  • Prevention Tip: Install moisture barriers around your dryer or elevate it to prevent water damage.
hurricane helene washer and dryer set damaged by water flood

Dishwasher

  • Concern: Can my dishwasher still function after water exposure?
  • Steps to Take:
    • Unplug the unit and remove any standing water.
    • Check for any water inside the motor or electrical components.
    • Have it inspected by a professional if there’s any water damage.
  • Prevention Tip: Elevating or waterproofing your kitchen could prevent future dishwasher damage.

Gas Stove Oven

  • Concern: Is it safe to use my gas stove after the hurricane?
  • Steps to Take:
    • Turn off the gas supply immediately.
    • Inspect the connections for water exposure.
    • Wait for a professional to inspect the stove before turning it back on.
  • Prevention Tip: Always shut off your gas supply before a storm to minimize risks.

Electric Stove Oven

  • Concern: Can I use my electric stove after possible water exposure?
  • Steps to Take:
    • Unplug the stove and let it dry out completely.
    • Inspect the heating elements and control panel for water damage.
    • Get a professional inspection if needed.
  • Prevention Tip: Keep the electric stove elevated or protected with waterproofing solutions.
hurricane helene gas stove oven with gas leak

Microwave Oven

  • Concern: Can I use my microwave if it got wet during the storm?
  • Steps to Take:
    • Unplug and check the microwave for any water inside.
    • Dry it thoroughly and inspect the control panel and vents for signs of damage.
    • If you’re unsure, get a technician to check it before using it.
  • Prevention Tip: Unplug and store your microwave in a safe, dry area before future storms.

Preventive Measures for Future Hurricanes

Taking the right steps ahead of future storms can help protect your appliances from damage. Here are some key preventive measures:

  • Unplug all appliances during a storm to avoid damage from power surges.
  • Install surge protectors to shield your appliances from electrical spikes.
  • Elevate appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators in flood-prone areas.
  • Waterproof vulnerable areas of your home, such as basements and laundry rooms.
  • Schedule regular maintenance with Appliance GrandMasters to ensure your appliances are storm-ready.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, it’s tough to know whether your appliance is safe to use post-storm. In these cases, it’s always better to be safe and call a professional.

Contact Appliance GrandMasters in Greenville, SC for expert appliance repair. Our technicians can safely inspect and repair any storm-damaged appliances, giving you peace of mind.

appliance technician agm greenville
Appliance GrandMasters are always ready

Want to Know More?

Appliance maintenance tips you might need:

Conclusion

Handling your appliances after a storm like Hurricane Helene is key to preventing further damage and ensuring safety. Always unplug and inspect each appliance before use, and call in a technician if there’s any sign of damage. Don’t forget to implement preventive measures for future storms to protect your home and appliances.

Whether you’re dealing with a flooded refrigerator, a damaged stove, or a water-exposed washer, Appliance GrandMasters in Greenville, SC is here to help with professional appliance repair and maintenance and repair services.

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Don’t stress. Appliance GrandMasters provides professional appliance installation and repair services to keep your appliances in top condition. Let our skilled technicians handle the work, ensuring your appliances run smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today for all your appliance repair needs in Greenville.

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About Appliance GrandMasters

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Formerly known as Mr. Rogers Appliances, we rebranded our appliance repair company to Appliance GrandMasters in June 2020. Since then, we have focused on developing our brand to be customer-oriented. 

Fixing appliances has become a passion for us. We enjoy challenges and we are always studying to become the very best.

We accomplish swift and top-notch service by employing efficient and friendly customer service procedures that guarantee accurate answers and solutions. 

Our approach involves the careful selection and comprehensive training for the necessary skills to fulfill our customers’ needs. Through these strategies, we strive to consistently provide exceptional service.