The short answer
Cut Power First
Before you touch anything in a flooded server room, shut off the electricity at the breaker panel. Water and electronics are a dangerous mix, and you want to avoid shock or fire. If the breaker panel is in the flooded area or you feel any doubt, leave the building and call the power company.
After the power is off, check for gas leaks or other hazards. Open windows and doors to let fresh air move through. Do not wade into water that might be deeper than an inch or two, especially if you cannot see the floor clearly.
Remove Standing Water
Use a wet vacuum or a pump to remove as much standing water as possible. Work from the far corner of the room toward the exit so you do not trap yourself. Mop up remaining moisture with towels and wring them out into a bucket.
If the water came from a sewage backup or contains debris, treat it as contaminated. Wear rubber boots and gloves, and avoid skin contact. Your priority is safety, not saving equipment.
- Wear rubber boots and gloves
- Use a wet vacuum made for water pickup
- Remove soaked rugs or mats immediately
- Do not use regular household vacuums
- Keep children and pets out of the room
Dry the Room Thoroughly
After removing standing water, set up fans and a dehumidifier to dry the air and surfaces. Aim the airflow at walls, floors, and any equipment that got wet. Open cabinet doors and pull out drawers if safe, but do not touch internal components while wet.
Drying a server room takes time, often several days. Check moisture levels in wood, drywall, and concrete with a moisture meter if you have one. If you live in Daytona Beach, the humid climate can slow drying, so keep the dehumidifier running continuously.
- Run fans and dehumidifier around the clock
- Point airflow under raised floors and behind racks
- Remove wet ceiling tiles if they sag
- Wipe down metal surfaces to prevent rust
- Replace desiccant packs in equipment if possible
Inspect Equipment and Wiring
Do not power up servers, switches, or other electronics until they are completely dry and inspected. Water can cause short circuits and permanent damage. A qualified electrician can check wiring and outlets for safety before you restore power.
For servers and storage devices, remove covers and let them air dry for at least 48 to 72 hours. Use compressed air to blow out moisture from connectors and fans. If you are unsure about any component, do not risk it; have a professional look at it.
Call Water Damage Pros
A flooded server room is not a DIY job for most homeowners. The pros have industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to dry the space thoroughly. They can also document the damage for your insurance claim.
Before you call, take photos of the water level and damaged equipment. Move any undamaged items to a dry area. The pros will handle the structural drying and may coordinate with an electrician or mold professional if needed.
- Take photos before cleanup starts
- List all damaged equipment and cables
- Ask about drying time and what they will do
- Keep receipts for any supplies you buy
Talk to someone now
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Can I turn on my servers after they dry out?
Only after they are completely dry and inspected. Moisture can remain inside for days. Turn them on too soon and you risk a short circuit. Have a professional check them first if you are not sure.
How long does it take to dry a flooded server room?
Drying usually takes several days, depending on the amount of water and the materials in the room. Concrete and drywall hold moisture longer. The pros use dehumidifiers and fans to speed up the process.
Will insurance cover the damage to my server room?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy for flood and electronics coverage. Take photos and keep records of everything damaged. Contact your insurance company to start a claim.