Soot can be acidic and conductive. On circuit boards it can cause corrosion and short circuits, sometimes days after the fire when the device is powered on.
Specialists clean electronics before they are used again, using techniques such as ultrasonic cleaning and controlled drying, and can advise whether repair is worthwhile.
When you need professional help
- TVs, computers or game consoles were in a smoke-filled room
- Appliances were exposed to heat or water
- Data or business equipment must be preserved
- You are unsure whether to power something on
- Insurance requires a technician's report
How the electronic restoration process works
Do not power on
Leave items unplugged until assessed.
Inspect
Check for visible corrosion and residue.
Clean
Use gentle methods to remove soot from components.
Dry and test
Test function and safety.
Report
Provide a condition report.
Safety considerations
- Don't plug in anything exposed to soot or water
- Heat-exposed batteries can be hazardous
- Back up data from restored drives promptly
Common questions
Can electronics always be saved?
Not always. Success depends on exposure and how soon cleaning starts.
Is it worth restoring older devices?
A technician can compare restoration and replacement cost for your claim.
Information on this page is general. A licensed provider must inspect your property to recommend specific work. We are a referral service and do not perform the work ourselves.
