Floods happen at times you don’t expect it. Even without typhoons or any natural disaster that could cause flooding, there are things inside your home that pose similar risks. These things are like time bombs waiting for the right moment to wreak havoc.
Check the list of regular household items you use every day that could cause floods inside your home.
Washing machine
Water damage due to broken washing machine hoses has a national average claim of more than $6,000. Washing machines are among the typical culprits behind water damage in residences, and fixing the damage it imposes can be costly. So, make sure to inspect your appliance’s hoses every month. Check for impending leaks characterized by bulges, blisters, cracks, kinks, and discoloration. It is also best to ask a professional to fix your damaged hoses.
When your washing machine’s hoses keep leaking, it could cause mold and damp patches on your floor or walls. It pays to learn more about mold removal and ask professionals for help. They will make your indoor environment safe and healthy again.
Dishwasher
Another household appliance that could cause water leaks and flood inside your home are dishwashers. Usually, this kitchen appliance fails at around 10 to 12 years of use. To avoid water leaks, tighten the dishwasher’s drain line on the spot where it links to under-sink plumbing.
If there is even a small leak, replace the water supply line right away. You should also ditch those rubber hoses and go for a steel-braided one. Finally, never run your dishwasher when no one is at home.
Water heater
Around 75% of tank water heaters break down after 12 years. For this reason, replacing the water heater is encouraged every ten years.
Around 70% of those failures are due to burst or leaking tanks. Avoid water damage inside your home by inspecting the water tank regularly. The inspection should include:
- Checking the anode rod
- Flushing the tank
- Looking into shut-off values
- Water heater piping
- Annual maintenance is also recommended.
Refrigerator
In refrigerators, the leading cause of water leaks is the icemakers. Debris can cause clogging into the defrost drain, leading to leaks after water backs up as the defrost drain doesn’t have the means to melt the clog. To prevent further problems, install braided steel alternatives to replace the copper water lines. Also, look at the back of the fridge to inspect the water supply yearly.
Air conditioner
Air conditioners also leak water due to disconnected or clogged drain lines. Overflowing or cracked drip pans and frozen evaporator coils cause water to drip from your AC. So, make sure to mount a drain pan overflow switch and a secondary drain line. It’s also best to conduct regular maintenance for all your HVAC units at home.
Conclusion
In closing, a simple leak on a regular household item inside your home could cause extensive damage when left unfixed, which is why routine maintenance is essential for all your home appliances. Dwellers should also observe proper appliance usage to prolong the lifespan of their home appliances and avoid costly repairs.
