Water heater breaks, floods KPA basement

The sump pump at the Kansas Press Association office has been working overtime in recent weeks because of heavy and persistent rainfall.

But the flood in KPA's basement Tuesday was not caused by rain. A water heater failed some time Monday night, spilling hundreds of gallons of water into the basement over several hours until it was discovered by employees.

Almost all the carpeting in the basement was affected, along with some woodwork and sheetrock. The KPA's financial records and other stored items in the basement weren't damaged.

Emily Bradbury, Lori Jackson, Amber Jackson and Doug Anstaett traded off running shop vacuums until Chavez Restoration showed up later in the afternoon. Restoration companies have been inundated with emergencies in the last month.

"The staff did an incredible job while we were waiting for the restoration company," Anstaett said, "and likely prevented even more damage from occurring."

A new water heater was installed this morning.

An adjustor will determine the extent of damage, but the KPA's insurance company has indicated the damage is covered.