The Importance of Drying Time

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians drying a restaurant.

The Importance of Drying Time

Before starting the remediation process during any water outbreak the drying process must be handled first. Drying time is important because residents can get their homes back into shape, business owners can start selling again, and cutting costs is ensured for insurance companies.

Drying time is the average number of days between the first air mover or dehumidifier being placed on-site until the last air mover or dehumidifier is removed from the job site. SERVPRO follows the IICRC S500 Standards in order to give customers the best drying time. There are three levels of drying time expectancy there are less than five days which falls under green, between five to seven days is yellow, and finally, more than seven days which lands in red. Our goal is to always have drying time in the green zone.

What causes a delay in drying time?

There are multiple factors that can cause a delay in the drying time. One of the most common factors is when residents or property owners unplug the air mover or dehumidifier. Unplugging appliances will surely increase the time needed to dry this also causes water to sit on surfaces which will cause the spread of mold and will further the damage to surfaces resulting in higher costs. Definitely do not unplug appliances.

Another cause of delayed drying time is moving appliances. When technicians set the appliances for drying time they are placed in areas that are most wet. This is not noticeable to the human eye therefore water levels are measured with water mapping tools for the most accurate drying placement.

Another common factor that may cause drying time is storms or more water leakage. Storms are definitely out of our control so make sure the technician that is working on your case is notified quickly to prevent further damage. If you had a water leakage make sure the water source is shut off every time water is not needed to be in use.