When the Washing Machine Leaks...

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Floods can happen without warning - you turn on your washing machine that has been working fine and the next moment, water is everywhere. Our team has been to thousands of water damage restoration jobs in the Southbury area and have identified the main causes of flooding from household appliances in our area. 

HOT WATER HEATER

Did you know that about 75% of tank water heaters fail by the time they’re 12 years old, typically due to leaks or burst tanks? The average cost of damage from a water heater failure is $4,000. Proactive tasks include: inspecting your tank regularly for leaks.An inspection should include flushing the tank, inspecting the anode rod, examining shut-off values and checking water heater piping. 

WASHING MACHINE

More than half of all water damage are due to broken washing machine hoses, with damages average more than $6,000. So, an easy way to reduce your risk of a flood is to inspect your hoses once a month and look for signs of impending leaks, such as blisters, bulges, cracks, discoloration or kinks.

DISHWASHER

Dishwashers usually fail when they are 10-12 years old, with flooding damage from a dishwater leak averaging $5,000. Keep an eye on connections and small parts, which are often the cause. Tighten the drain line where it connects to under-sink plumbing. Choosing a steel-braided hose over a rubber one is always recommended as well.

REFRIGERATOR

We all love our ice makers (remember having to fill the old cube trays? However, ice makers are the primary cause for water leaks in a refrigerator. Replace copper water lines with braided steel alternatives. Check the water supply line behind the fridge yearly. Tighten the compression nut to prevent a slow drip from causing hidden damage.

AIR CONDITIONER

When an HVAC air conditioners is installed in the attic, it can cause the most damage because water can leak throughout the entire home. Installing a secondary drain line and drain pan overflow switch can help. Also, have your A/C maintained regularly, which includes changing the filter and checking the refrigerant level.