Appliance Leaks and Water Damage

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

When was the last time you inspected your appliances? Many of us don’t give a second thought about our household appliances that we use every day and the amount of wear and tear they receive. Most appliances that we use utilize water. This means they are prone to leaks if not maintained.  Water damage can sit for a long time before damage is realized. Therefore, regular inspections are important for prevention.

Inspect These Appliances Often:

• Hot Water Heater

A hot water heater will typically have a lifetime of 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.  Keeping an eye out for any accumulation both during and after use is a smart move.

• Refrigerator

Refrigerators are not moved very often, which can lead to water damage that has happened that you don’t know about. A refrigerator’s water lines are typically made from a soft plastic that can easily fail, so checking for leaks behind and under the fridge as part of your annual home maintenance is wise.

• Dishwasher

A dishwasher 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 knowing what models are not covered by your insurance company is a good idea.

• Washing Machine

Washing machine hoses are some of the most common sources of leaks. It is recommended that they are inspected at least once a month by homeowners. In addition to these regular checks, they should be fully replaced every five years 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. Having a professional technician evaluate your machine is the best defense against HVAC created water damage.