Laundry room with a tank-type water heater beside the washer
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After an appliance leak: drying, mold risk and what to tell the customer

Fixing the leak is only half the job. EPA and CDC both say water-damaged areas and items should be dried within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold. Porous materials such as drywall, carpet and ceiling tile that stay wet may have to be removed. Small areas of mold (EPA's guide uses about 10 square feet) can often be cleaned by the occupant; larger areas or hidden mold call for a remediation professional. Your job: stop the source, show the customer what got wet, tell them the clock is running, and document it.

Cross-checked ~15 min easyBrands: All

Before you start

  • Shut off power to the wet appliance and do not stand in water near live equipment (see flooded-basement-or-wet-floor-electrical-safety)
  • Wear gloves and eye protection if you touch moldy material; EPA recommends an N-95 respirator for mold cleanup
  • Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners

Diagnostic steps

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OnCall Tech is a reference tool for trained technicians and can make mistakes. Always disconnect power and confirm with the manufacturer's documentation before you work.

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