This time last year, many facilities in the greater New York area were scrambling to make sure their commercial boilers were in operational condition after Hurricane Sandy. Many experienced flooding and severe damage; here’s how you should handle a flooded boiler.

Check the gas valve. Because furnaces and boilers have gas valves that are susceptible to water damage, it is important to examine them. You may not be able to see damage on the outside of the device, so look at the valves and other controls. Water can begin the corrosion process and can interrupt the functionality of your boiler. More severe situations could cause expositions or fires, so it’s best to let a professional check the unit if it has been exposed to floodwater.

Replace parts. If the unit can be salvaged after a flood, replace the gas valves, pilot and burner orifices, controls, and the filter. Make sure to consult a professional, even if the equipment is clean. You may feel like you can do it yourself, but doing so could be to the facility’s detriment. Some manufacturers require that a licensed agent, must repair or replace the unit in order to maintain any applicable warranties, so it is a good idea to know if this type of rule applies to your boiler before you consider doing repairs yourself.’

Consider a new unit. If the system is older, it’s probably lost its efficiency so it may be a good time to replace the entire unit. A new model can also prevent further service interruptions and lower costs.

Examine the ductwork. In addition to the state of the actual commercial boiler, the ductwork is an important component in its proper operation. The ductwork should be clean and dry, and it may be a smart idea to have it disinfected after the flood to guarantee that it does not affect the health of building occupants. During the cleaning process, a technician also can ensure that all ductwork is sealed, which can bolster overall efficiency.

Look at pressure-relief devices. These components should also be checked to make sure they did not sustain damage during the flood, and should be examined to see if any blockages are in the systems. It is a good idea to let a qualified professional check these devices. The work may need to be conducted by a company with a National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors designation.’

Pay attention to boiler insulation. When evaluating the commercial boiler to assess damage, look and see if any insulation has been affected by the floodwater. If the insulation is waterlogged (and must be removed), remember that asbestos could impair those efforts’and you will need to take measures to safely remove the insulation. Waterlogged insulation that is left in place without drying or replacement could spell disaster if the boiler is fired up and steam is generated.

Look at the foundation. In addition to assessing the commercial boiler unit, peek at the foundation to see if it has been weakened as a result of the water. If the boiler has shifted, or could move as a result of the storm activity, that could affect the boiler and its operability as well as the structure of the building.

Check feed and return systems. It is vital to inspect the components that feed water into the system, as well as condensate return systems, to make sure they are free of any debris. After the boiler is up and running again, check the water quality to make sure it is not contaminated and is running clean.

Be safe. Remember that floodwater can contain harmful chemicals and bacteria, so adhere to standard safety procedures when examining a commercial boiler. Also, shut off all utilities in the boiler room before you or a technician approaches the boiler.

Knowledgeable, experienced specialists from’American Boiler Company can assist in recovering your boiler so it continues to serve your facility well. Contact us today to learn more about commercial boiler recovery after a flooding event.