On the afternoon of May 29, a heavy downpour accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds occurred across Hanoi for about two hours, resulting in historic flash flooding.
According to Zing.vn, the heaviest rainfall was recorded in Cau Giay district, with a precipitation rate of 180 mm. The Lang station recorded a water level of 140mm, the highest daily cumulative rainfall in 36 years since 1986 (132mm).
On social media, people shared amusing images of streets suddenly turning into rivers. And it wasn’t just the streets; in some areas, water entered homes, causing severe flooding and significantly impacting families’ daily lives.
Amusing yet concerning images of streets turning into rivers and water entering homes in Hanoi after the afternoon downpour on May 29. (Photos by Phuc Nguyen and Hoang Hai)
The heavy rain caused water to enter homes, damaging many electronic appliances. (Video by Thu Giang)
What to do with household appliances and electronic equipment?
As evident in the photos, people worry not only about vehicles and furniture but also about household appliances and electronics when water enters their homes.
On a Facebook group about household appliances, a user shared their experience with their dishwasher after the historic flood. The dishwasher was submerged up to a quarter of its height, and although the water has receded, the owner is unsure how to proceed and is hesitant to plug it in.
A dishwasher submerged up to a quarter of its height, leaving the owner unsure of its fate. (Photo by Nguyen Huong – Association for Dishwasher and Convenient Home Appliance Users)
In the comment section, many people expressed concerns about the dishwasher’s fate. Since the main circuit board of the dishwasher is located at the bottom, it is likely that the circuit board was completely submerged in water, as seen in the photo.
In addition to the main circuit board, the motor, and a series of other sensors in the dishwasher may have been affected, leading to reduced performance or complete malfunction.
Other household appliances and electronics, such as televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines, can also be rendered useless if not properly handled after water ingress or prolonged exposure to moisture.
Household appliances and electronics can easily malfunction if exposed to moisture or flooded for an extended period. (Illustrative image)
Below are some guidelines provided by EVN (Vietnam Electricity) to handle electrical appliances and electronics after flooding. Following these guidelines can minimize equipment malfunction and ensure users’ safety:
1. Inspect and clean the equipment:
Floodwaters carry mud, dirt, and potentially harmful microorganisms into your home and appliances. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect and clean the equipment as soon as the flooding subsides. Remove the casing and inspect critical internal components such as wires, circuit boards, sensors, fuses, switches, and sockets.
Inspect and clean critical components of the equipment after flooding. (Illustrative image)
Particularly for equipment covered in mud, it is essential to remove all traces of mud immediately. Mud retains moisture and can cause further damage to the equipment if left unattended.
After cleaning with water or a dry cloth, dry the components with a hairdryer or fan.
– Step 1: Use a fan to blow strong gusts of wind onto the damp equipment to evaporate the water.
– Step 2: Once the equipment is relatively dry, use a hairdryer on the lowest heat setting. Note: Electronic components can withstand temperatures up to 50-60°C. Dry in short intervals of 2-3 minutes to prevent overheating, continuing until the equipment is entirely dry.
Using a hairdryer set to 50-60°C to dry electronic equipment after water exposure is an effective method. (Illustrative image)
Alternatively, you can dry the equipment using incandescent light bulbs: Place the equipment in a wooden or cardboard box, turn on 2-3 incandescent light bulbs, and leave them inside the box for about 8 hours. The heat from the light bulbs, approximately 50-60°C, will help dry the equipment thoroughly.
2. Do not plug in or use the equipment immediately:
After drying the electrical equipment, refrain from plugging it in or testing it. If you plug it in too soon, there is a risk of smoke, fire, or explosion due to residual moisture in the machine’s components.
It is advisable to refrain from plugging in or using electrical equipment immediately after cleaning and drying. (Illustrative image)
Ideally, allow the equipment to air dry for 24 hours before use. For added peace of mind, you can use a multimeter to measure insulation resistance and ensure proper insulation before plugging it in.
You can perform these checks and maintenance procedures on your family’s electrical equipment if you have the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools. However, if the equipment has been severely flooded, it is best to call a professional repair service or take it to a reputable repair shop.
Additionally, when heavy rain and flooding are imminent, the first priority is to move electrical equipment to higher ground and unplug it as quickly as possible to prevent unfortunate incidents.
According to Trí Thức Trẻ
Why Are Microwaves Falling Out of Favor in the Kitchen?
In recent times, the microwave oven has seemingly lost its once-prestigious status, with an increasing number of households neglecting or underutilizing it.
The Alluring Scent of Milkflower: Why Do Some People Enjoy Its Fragrance While Others Are Appalled?
The sweet fragrance of milk flowers evokes a sense of nostalgia for some, transporting them back to cherished memories of times gone by. However, for others, this very same scent can be overpowering and unpleasant, even eliciting a sense of dread.
The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Vietnamese Vermicelli with Fried Tofu and Shrimp Paste
To make a delicious and authentic Vietnamese dish of Bun Dau Mam Tom, the preparation of ingredients and the cooking process are key. The following is a guide on how to create this tasty dish at home, with simple steps to ensure a true taste of Vietnam.
The Secret to Hanoi’s Century-Old Delicious Nem Ran: Unveiling the Traditional Ingredients.
The traditional Hanoi-style nem is an explosion of flavors, a culinary masterpiece with a myriad of ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds.
The Ancient Quarter Where People’s Artist Chi Trung Resides in a 33sqm Apartment: An Expensive Neighborhood With a Charming Hanoi Specialty That Captivates Tourists.
The Ancient Trang Tien Street is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the charming capital city. Every corner of this street offers a perfect photo opportunity with a unique blend of modern and ancient backdrops, creating a truly magical experience.
