The short answer
Check the Heater First
After a flood, water can damage the internal parts of any heater. If the unit was submerged or even splashed, do not plug it in. Moisture inside the wiring or heating elements can cause shorts, sparks, or electric shock. Inspect the cord, plug, and casing for water stains, rust, or dents.
If the heater is a gas model, water may have affected the burner or gas lines. A professional should inspect and service it before you use it again. For electric heaters, a local electrician can check the unit and your home's wiring. Never take apart a heater yourself unless you know what you are doing.
- Look for water lines, rust, or corrosion on the heater
- Check the power cord for cracks or fraying
- Smell for gas or burning odors near the unit
- If in doubt, set the heater aside and call a professional
Dry the Room Before Heating
Running a heater in a damp room can push moisture into walls, floors, and furniture. That trapped moisture encourages mold and rot. Before you heat, open windows and use fans or a dehumidifier to pull out as much water as possible. The pros often use structural drying and dehumidification to speed this up.
If the room still has standing water or soaked carpets, remove that water first. You can use a wet vacuum or mop and buckets. For large floods, local water damage pros can handle extraction and drying. Once surfaces feel dry to the touch, you can consider using a heater to warm the space.
Watch for Electrical Hazards
Floodwater can reach electrical outlets, switches, and wiring behind walls. Even if the power is on, hidden moisture can create a serious shock risk. Before using any heater, check that outlets and switches are dry. If you see water stains or the power flickers, turn off the circuit at the breaker and call an electrician.
Never run a heater on an extension cord after a flood. Plug it directly into a wall outlet. Also, keep the heater away from wet carpet or puddles. If you feel any tingling or hear buzzing, turn it off and unplug it immediately. Your safety matters more than getting warm.
Consider the Heater Type
Portable space heaters are common after a flood, but they come with risks. Oil-filled radiators are safer than fan-forced models because they have no exposed heating coils. Still, any heater that got wet should be inspected. For whole-home heating, your furnace or boiler may also need a check after a flood.
If you rely on a central system, have a professional inspect the furnace, ductwork, and vents. Floodwater can block or damage them. The pros who handle flood damage cleanup often work alongside heating specialists. They can tell you what needs to be replaced or cleaned before you turn the system back on.
Use Heat Wisely
Once the room is dry and the heater is safe, use it to warm the space gradually. Set the thermostat to a moderate level, not high. Rapid heating can cause wood to crack or paint to bubble. Keep the heater on a level, non-flammable surface and away from curtains, paper, or clothing.
Monitor the room for a few hours. If you notice a burning smell or the heater cycles oddly, turn it off and have it checked. Also, consider using a dehumidifier alongside the heater to keep the air dry. That combination helps prevent mold and speeds up the drying process.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can I use a hair dryer or space heater to dry wet walls?
Using a hair dryer on a small spot might help, but it is slow and can overheat. A space heater can dry a room, but only after you remove standing water and improve airflow. For large areas, the pros use air movers and dehumidifiers for faster, safer drying.
What should I do if my heater got wet in the flood?
Do not plug it in. Let it dry completely, then inspect it for damage. If you see rust, corrosion, or any sign of water inside, have a professional service it. For gas heaters, call a professional to check the gas lines and burner before you use it again.
Is it safe to turn on the furnace after a flood?
Only if the furnace was not submerged and the area is dry. Check for water stains and have a professional inspect the system. Floodwater can damage electrical parts and gas valves. If you smell gas, leave the house and call the gas company from outside.