When it comes to water damage in your home, some people assume that flooding due to heavy rains or sump pump failure are the only causes. So, it may come as a surprise to know that common household appliances that we use every day could cause water leaks and major damages. The primary reason for this is that these appliances rely on water to function properly so any malfunction within them could result in leaks in your home which could force you to seek water damage help.
Below are some of the household appliances, that if left unchecked, could lead to unanticipated home repairs.
Washing Machines
The washing machine is one of the major culprits when you are looking for household appliances that could cause water leaks. Whether you are using the old models of washing machines or the Energy Star ones, these appliances require gallons of water. Any problems with the gasket, hose, pump or seal could result in flooding of the home. You should not hesitate to get water damage help.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers are also some of the most common causes of water leaks. Any cracks or bulges in the hose can allow water to start leaking heavily. Unfortunately, a dishwasher is likely going to malfunction when no one is at home or overnight; hence, nobody may notice that there is any problem with it until the water starts running into rooms within your home. Only use soap specifically designed for dishwashers, using regular dish soap can cause leaks and overflows.
Refrigerators
As your refrigerator continues working, excess moisture will be formed around its bottom. Under normal circumstances, this is not a problem. However, it could become an issue whenever there is a form of leak or clog around the drain line. Once the excess moisture builds, the leaked or clogged drain line will allow water to start flowing out the refrigerator onto the floor. Also, be sure to check the ice maker as these are major culprits of leaks.
Hot Water Heaters
A hot water heater could hold as much as 80 gallons of water and most failures are caused by a slow leak or sudden burst. You’re also more prone to serious damage if you have a high mineral content in your water.
How to Prevent These Water Leaks and Damages
Pay attention to puddles and don’t misjudge the power of a small leak. Do not wait until your kitchen or laundry room floods to take action, be proactive in checking for early signs of any sort of water leaks from your household appliances. Here are a few things you can do to prevent these leaks and damages:
- Foremost, if you are leaving home for an extended period, you should shut off or unplug all appliances that use water.
- Instead of using rubber hoses, choose steel braided hoses that are stronger and more durable. For refrigerators, opt for copper tubing instead of flexible plastic.
- Clean your household appliances regularly. For your dishwasher, focus on the filter while you should clean the condenser coil of your refrigerator. You should also clean the drain trap of your washers.
- If possible, move your hot water heater to the garage to reduce potential damage to furniture your home’s foundation.
What to Do If There is an Existing Damage?
It’s always best to catch the leak BEFORE it happens, as paying for emergency repairs can be costly, but if an unchecked leak has already caused damage to your floors, ceiling or drywall, you should quickly call professionals to offer you water damage help and restore your home to its original state.
