Are Your Appliances Causing Water Damage?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Think about the last time your appliances were moved or inspected

Many of us don't think about the household appliances that we use every single day. For most, they probably become a passing thought about how much wear and tear they are receiving. Most of the appliances we use to make our everyday lives easier to utilize water. This means they are prone to leaks at some point if they are not caught early on. Water damage can sit for ages before you as a homeowner realize.  This is why regular inspections are important for prevention. 

Inspect These Appliances for Leaks Often:

Hot Water Heater

The lifetime of a hot water heater will typically span 10 to 15 years, but leaks can start much earlier than this. The seals and pipes connected to the hot water heater can often break down, so keeping an eye out for any accumulation both during and after us is a smart move. 

Refrigerator

The rarity with which refrigerators are moved can lead to secret water damage that festers for ages before it is brought to light.  A refrigerator's water lines are typically made from a soft plastic that can easily fall, so checking for leaks behind and under the fridge as part of your annual home maintenance is wise. 

Dishwasher

A dishwasher's tubbing is just as problematic as a refrigerator, but is even more isolated and utilizes far more water.  Additionally, homeowner's insurance often does not cover water damage caused by older models of dishwashers, so regular checks are extremely important to keep up with. 

Washing Machine

Washing machine hoses are some of the most common sources of leaks. Because they notorious for this, it is recommended that they are inspected at least once a month by homeowners so you can be sure no issues have arisen.  In addition to the regular checks, they should be fully replaced every five years in order to prevent hidden deterioration. 

Air Conditioner

The drain in your HVAC unit is designed to keep condensation from pooling in and around the unit, but if this drain malfunctions, water damage can quickly be caused. Reference your manufacturer's manual to determine how often your unit should be inspected and serviced-having a professional technician evaluate your machine is the best defense against HVAC=created water damage