How to Deal with a Flooded Garage?
3 Answers
According to the extent of the vehicle being submerged, if only the floor is flooded without reaching the seats and dashboard, simply clean up the accumulated water inside the car in time. If the entire car is submerged, typically up to the dashboard, it is recommended to replace the vehicle. The dashboard is the control center of the entire vehicle, and its various electronic components are relatively expensive. To prevent losses caused by a car being submerged in an underground garage, it is advisable to purchase a comprehensive car insurance policy before the rainy season arrives.
I just experienced a flooded garage and was particularly nervous, but quick action is crucial. First, ensure personal safety: immediately turn off the garage power outlets and main switch to prevent electric shock hazards, and absolutely avoid touching anything electrified. Then, remove the accumulated water—I used a household water pump or absorbent mop, and even sandbags as a temporary water barrier worked well. After draining the water, cleaning is essential; use diluted bleach or specialized disinfectant to wipe down the floors and walls to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Don’t forget to check the car in the garage: move it out, dry the engine and chassis to prevent internal water damage and rust. Throughout the process, it’s best to wear gloves to protect yourself. Taking the time now can save a lot of trouble later.
Last time my garage flooded, I spent hours dealing with it and gained quite a bit of experience. The first step was cutting off the power to ensure the garage wasn't live before entering—safety first. Then, drainage was crucial: I used a water pump or absorbent pads to quickly remove the standing water; without tools, simply using towels to manually soak up the water also works. The cleaning process required thoroughness: I used antibacterial spray to disinfect the entire garage, including corners and storage areas, to prevent mold from spreading. The car also needed immediate inspection: starting the engine to check for abnormalities and drying the tire areas to prevent corrosion. Afterwards, I reinforced the garage door gaps to prevent future rainwater from seeping in, which saves both money and hassle.
