If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (507) 200-3700

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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration


Soot removed in Hayfield, MN

We received a call with concerns of mold but what our technician found was something different. Puff back is a messy situation in which smoke and soot is released into the furnace. Puff backs are more common with oil systems but any furnace can cause puff back.

Puff backs often result in soot being distributed throughout the house and often requires professional cleaning. We at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna have the techniques, tools and experience in finding how far this soot travels and make it “Like it never even happened.”

This is an example of what restoration services we provide when you are faced with occurrences in fire/ smoke or furnace malfunctions. See below some tips to remember when you are faced with a puffback from a furnace.

5 things you should do after soot damage

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded into upholstery and carpets and keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • Tape covers over air registers.
  • Throw away all exposed food.
  • Call a repairman to fix the malfunctioning furnace

5 things you should NOT do after soot damage

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don’t use standard cleaning products that could cause further damage and may not get rid of the oil residue and odors.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fans or increase air circulation as this will only spread the soot around.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

Call SERVPRO to professionally attack this cleaning project at 507.200.3700