The Basics Of Water Damage Equipment

When water damage is involved, each situation is unique and requires careful consideration of a number of factors to ensure that the job is not only done quickly, but properly to prevent mold growth and residual moisture that can cause problems down the line. Depending on the size and scope of the flooding, the location and time of the year, different types of equipment can be utilized to dry out the site.

1. Air Movers
Otherwise known simply as fans, air movers are the most common type of water damage restoration equipment in use these days. The concept is simple: water evaporates when dry air absorbs the lingering moisture, so air movers displace humid air in large enough quantities that speed the process up compared to simply opening the windows or turning the air conditioning on. Air drying is easy and inexpensive compared to other methods; unfortunately, it’s also the slowest method.
Most water damage companies will start with air movers as a foundation for their restoration strategy and utilize other devices in conjunction with them.

2. Dehumidifiers
These devices actively remove humidity from the air instead of moving it around like the fans do. By doing so, they accelerate the process even more when used in conjunction with the air movers. The most common type of dehumidifier is the refrigerant, which works by cooling the air until the humidity condenses. Since cooling the air is less destructive than heating, seeing this unit on-site is almost guaranteed on the majority of jobs. The other type is a desiccant, which extracts water by using chemicals that absorb moisture. This is less common as it can cause damage to common materials used in a home due to its strength.
Dehumifidiers are typically placed in strategic locations according to the moisture readings obtained by the technician.

3. Air Scrubbers
An air scrubber is a device that circulates the air in the environment and has a filter installed to trap particles and gasses. These devices are used to clean the air and make it safe for both the inhabitants and the workers. Without an air scrubber, mold spores and asbestos fibers can be disturbed by the air movers and be scattered everywhere, potentially causing health hazards to humans.
Air scrubbers are typically used on larger jobs where airborne impurities are a concern, as the filters they are fitted with are extremely expensive and their application may not always be needed on smaller restoration jobs.

Since water damage comes in all shapes and sizes, not every piece of equipment will be needed at any given time. The water damage technician assigned to the site will take a moisture reading of the affected area, typically using an infrared sensor, and create a moisture map that indicates the level of humidity in each area. From there on, decisions will be made regarding necessary equipment and placement.