Clean Water, Gray Water, and Black Water

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Knowing what type of water you are dealing with when your home or business suffers from water damage is critical to ensure that your property is properly cleaned.

There are 3 types of water: clean water, gray water, and black water. Clean water is rainwater, or water from a broken pipe or other water sources. The term Gray water is used for slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes grey water when it is left untreated, allowing bacteria and other contaminants to grow; this makes the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more. It is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding, or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.

Not all water damage is treated the same. For each type of water, a different protocol must be employed to ensure a clean and safe environment.

If your property experiences damage from clean water:

• Shut off the water if possible.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if safe from potential shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may occur.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow even drying.
• Move paintings and art objects, computers, documents, and other items that may be sensitive to moisture.
• Do not leave books, magazines, or newspapers on wet floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use household vacuum cleaners to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or cause damage to the vacuum.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. Do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water 

If you home of business if affected by contaminated water:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items. 
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to contaminated areas.

When you have water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Gilbert, Chandler South, Ahwatukee and South Tempe at (480) 558-7620