source:freepik.com
Rain gutters are essential in protecting our properties from water damage. When gutters malfunction, potential issues may extend beyond the roof and exterior of the house, affecting its foundation and even the electrical system. Rainwater and electricity are dangerously combined, and when they seep into a home, they can damage wiring, outlets, and electronic appliances like walk-in refrigerators.
These damages lead to costly repairs and operational issues.
Let’s explore how water from poor rain gutter systems can damage electronic devices.
Short Circuit
Pure water is a poor conductor of electricity, but the water we typically contact is full of dissolved electrolytes. The ions (sodium and chloride) in water act as conductors of electricity.
For example, when an on-state electronic device like a walk-in refrigerator comes in contact with water ions, a connection is created, causing a large current that damages the circuit. This is called a short circuit.
Corrosion
Corrosion is a significant factor in causing damage to electronics, even when submerged in water or when the device is off-state. When water comes in contact with metal, the metal begins to rust, and the ions in the water accelerate this process.
Corrosion happens more quickly when the ion content is higher. This explains why metals corrode more quickly in coastal places when the water has a higher salt content. When a circuit’s metal connections start to corrode, the connections break, and electricity cannot flow through them. It is called an open circuit.
Temperature Fluctuations
Walk-in refrigerators are designed to maintain a consistent temperature to ensure the safety of food and beverages. If the ground underneath the appliance becomes wet due to poor drainage, it may need to work harder to maintain the required temperature. This extra stress may shorten the device’s lifespan and increase energy costs.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Walk-in refrigerator interior surfaces may develop mold, particularly when not provided enough time to dry out fully after a hurricane or tropical storm. Furthermore, mold growth can exacerbate the deterioration of electrical components and pose significant health risks to occupants.
Electrocution Hazard
Water is a conductor of electricity. When it comes into contact with live electrical components, it can pose a risk of electrocution to anyone nearby. This is especially harmful when water has flooded areas with outlets.
Long–term Structural Damage
If issues are not promptly addressed, water damage can cause structural issues, such as damage to walls, ceilings, floors, and the structure of walk-in refrigerators. It can also indirectly affect electrical systems due to further moisture and deterioration.
Malfunction
Water infiltration into electrical equipment, including switches, outlets, and appliances, can significantly disrupt its normal functioning. According to statistics, about 37% of homeowners have stated that water damage has caused losses.
Moisture can damage internal components of electrical equipment, causing faults, tripped breakers, or even total failure. This raises the chance of an electrical or fire mishap and degrades the equipment’s performance.
Ending Note
In conclusion, a poor rain gutter system may have serious consequences, especially for electronic devices like walk-in refrigerators. The combination of water and electricity creates various harmful risks, including temperature fluctuations, short circuits, corrosion, mold growth, electrocution hazards, and long-term structural damages.
To ensure the safety of your property, you may hire Residential Rain Gutter Repair services.