In many cases, water damage in homes occurs due to inclement weather such as heavy rains and floods. But, not much to your thinking, that your home’s plumbed appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters, and even our showers, faucets, and sinks are all potential sources of water damage. A simple plumbing problem could cause a leak and if undetected can result in severe damage to your home and possessions.

Fortunately, water damage from your household appliances can all be prevented by simply checking your appliances and plumbing fixtures periodically (at least once or twice a year). Doing this will allow you to catch and fix the problem before it becomes a costly disaster. Follow these tips to help you prevent appliance water damage in your home.

How To Prevent Water Damage From Your Water Heater

A water heater malfunction is a common issue and one of the leading causes of water damage in homes.

• Regularly inspect your water heater for any signs of corrosion, broken valves, and loose joints. Repair damage immediately.
• Replace your water heater after 12 years of age or earlier if you notice signs of damage like rust or water seepage.
• Check the floor near the bottom of your water heater for leaks. It can be a cause of a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve.
• Flush your tank every six months to remove sediments that accumulate at the bottom of the tank.

How To Prevent Washing Machine Water Damage

The most common cause of water damage from a washing machine is because of the supply hose failure. Do a monthly checkup of the washer.

• Check the hoses for any signs of damage. If any of your hoses look worn, cracked, or blistered, replace them immediately. A minor broken hose may eventually burst and can cause major water damage in your home.
• Check to see if the connections of all valves are tightened. If loose, tighten all the connections; of the drain hose and the hoses to the washer valves and inlets.
• Replace your machine’s hoses even if the outside appearance doesn’t show signs of damage. Consider using a steel-braided hose as it can last longer and will less likely cause water damage to your home.
• Check the hoses for clogs. Over time, debris and other residues accumulate inside your machine, causing a clog. When these hoses are clogged, your machine cannot drain the water properly and can lead to catastrophic water loss.
• Turn off the water supply when not in use.

How To Prevent Dishwasher Leaks and Overflow

The hoses, valves, and switches of your dishwasher as well as the seals can cause water leak from your dishwasher.

• Check the bottom of your machine for water leaks. If you see signs of water dripping at the hose clamps or along the hose, the hose might be loose or damaged. If loose, tighten all the fittings. If cracked or damaged, replace them with a new one.
• Inspect the gaskets around the dishwasher door. If damaged, it can cause water to seep out of your dishwasher. Replace the gasket immediately to prevent water damage to your home.

How To Prevent Refrigerator Leaks

The most common causes of refrigerator leaks are damaged water lines.

• Check the supply hose for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary.
• If your refrigerator has a built-in ice maker, check the hose if it is properly connected.
• Replace filters at least once a year to prevent water leaks.

How To Prevent Leaking Air Conditioner

An air conditioner can cause a leak mainly because of a clogged or damaged drain pipe.

• Install a drainpipe to prevent overflowing water and directing it outside.
• Change your air conditioner filter at least once a month.
• Clean the drain line regularly to remove clogs and debris.

Install Leak Detectors To Prevent Appliance Water Damage

Water leaks from your dishwasher, washing, machine, water heater, and refrigerator can cause considerable damage to your walls, ceilings, and floors. Aside from taking the steps to prevent appliance water damage, adding a simple leak detector can help you stop the leak before it can cause severe damage to your home.

You can either use wired leak detectors or battery-operated leak sensors that can send you an alarm once it has detected water flow. Just install the sensors on the floor next to your appliances.

You can also consider installing a more advanced shutoff valve system that will automatically turn off the water when it has detected a leak. Install it directly to your valves so it can prevent water from damaging your home and possessions.

What To Do If You Have A Leak or Flood

When your appliance leaks, water damage can occur when the problem is not addressed immediately. Don’t ignore the signs of a looming water disaster and take the proper action quickly.

1. Shut off the water supply. Whether you are dealing with a minor leak or a flood, shut off the water supply to stop the water from leaking. You can either turn off the main water shutoff valves or the valve connected to your appliances.

2. Remove the standing water from the affected area. This will help prevent water from causing further damage to the areas of a home and minimize the chance of mold growth.

3. Dry the area and repair the damage within 24 hours. This will help prevent mold from causing further damage to your home.

Contact Professionals At Superior Restoration For Cleanup And Restoration Services

In case your home’s appliances caused water damage to your property, contact Superior Restoration professionals immediately. Our professionals are experts in dealing with water damage, whether it is a minor leak, a flooded basement, or an overflowing toilet. They have all the resources and skills to clean up your home and restore it to its original state.

You can contact our local office, Water Damage Riverside, to learn more about our restoration services.