Major Water Heater Failure Disrupts Poway Commercial Building: PuroClean of Del Cerro Responds

When a tankless (instant flow) water heater burst in the upstairs break room of a commercial building in Poway, it led to significant Category 2 water damage across multiple rooms. PuroClean of Del Cerro quickly dispatched a trained response team, led by Lead Technician Danny, to inspect the damage and begin the water mitigation process.

Initial Inspection and Immediate Water Extraction

Upon arrival, our technicians found standing water and high moisture levels throughout the building—affecting 19 rooms across both floors. Our first priority was water extraction. Using industrial-grade water removal equipment, we quickly extracted the standing water to help prevent additional damage and begin the structural drying process.

Strategic Equipment Deployment and Containment

After extracting the standing water, our team began the containment and drying phase. We installed plastic barriers to isolate affected areas and create controlled drying zones—preventing moisture from spreading to unaffected parts of the building.

To accelerate the drying process, we deployed multiple commercial-grade dehumidifiers and high-powered air movers across the impacted rooms. Over the course of three days, our technicians returned daily to monitor moisture levels, document progress, and fine-tune the setup as needed. During this time, we also coordinated a pack-out with one of our trusted vendors to safely remove and store contents from the affected rooms.

To dry behind walls without extensive demolition, we removed the vinyl cove base in each affected area and drilled small access holes just below the baseboard line. This technique allowed targeted airflow into the wall cavities—helping dry the structure inside and out while being as non-intrusive as possible.

Minimizing Damage Through Advanced Drying Techniques

Thanks to our prompt response and strategic drying methods, we were able to preserve approximately 80% of the building materials. Only 20%—including portions of drywall, insulation, and finish materials—were deemed unsalvageable and required removal due to excessive moisture.

With drying well underway, our crew began the demolition phase for the affected materials. To maintain a safe and clean work environment, we deployed HEPA-filtered air scrubbers throughout the impacted areas. These scrubbers help capture airborne particulates, allergens, and mold spores—protecting both our technicians and the property’s occupants.

Before any demolition began, we laid protective coverings on the floors to make cleanup easier and reduce the risk of further damage. Our team then marked uniform cut lines using chalk and performed precise removals with a KettSaw, allowing us to extract damaged drywall in large, manageable sections. Behind the walls, we removed all water-saturated insulation.

Targeted demolition efforts included:

• Upstairs offices: Removal of individual saturated carpet tiles
• Break room (origin of the leak): Removal of a water-damaged section of cabinetry
• Downstairs offices: Removal of affected acoustic ceiling panels

Final Cleaning and Antimicrobial Treatment

After demolition was completed, we moved on to detailed structural cleaning. Every screw and nail was carefully removed from the aluminum framing to prepare the space for repairs. Using HEPA-filtered vacuums, we thoroughly cleaned all exposed surfaces—removing dust, debris, and microscopic particles that could interfere with restoration or indoor air quality.

To help prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, we applied an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) registered anti-microbial spray to all exposed structural materials. This powerful treatment not only disinfects but also creates a cleaner environment for rebuilding. The process was completed with a full wipe-down, leaving the area dry, sanitary, and ready for the next steps in recovery.

Final Drying and Reconstruction Readiness

With the detailed cleaning finished and all debris cleared, our team repositioned the drying equipment to target the newly exposed structural materials. After just under two weeks on-site, all moisture levels were reduced to meet IICRC industry drying standards. With mitigation successfully completed, the property was declared ready for reconstruction and repairs.

At PuroClean of Del Cerro, we understand how disruptive property damage can be—especially in a commercial setting. That’s why we act fast, work thoroughly, and treat every space with care. If your home, business, or commercial building experiences water damage, give us a call at (858)-869-1313.

We are one team leading the PuroClean way.