If you’ve ever worried about your dishwasher causing damage to your home, you probably had concerns about it leaking. Water damage from a faulty dishwasher is a common problem. But did you know that your dishwasher could be a potential fire hazard as well?
Though dishwasher fires are not the most common type of fire related to appliances, they can occur when there are electrical issues or faulty components. They can also happen if your dishwasher isn’t maintained correctly. The main causes are a faulty heating element or moisture getting into contact with the wires, so it’s crucial to make sure your dishwasher doesn’t leak. Check for potential leaks at least once per year to prevent fire and water damage in Springfield Missouri.
Follow Usage Instructions
Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. These often include fire safety notices as well as tips for usage. Look for the warning section in the manual to find out what fire safety hazards exist for your dishwasher and to avoid making mistakes that could mean a fire occurring is more likely to happen. It is a good idea to check their website to get updates on any safety information for the appliance. Register your dishwasher with the manufacturer to receive notifications in case the product or any of the components are recalled.
Inspect Before Use
Check your dishwasher for obvious signs of damage before each use. Make sure it is supervised while in use and avoid leaving it on when no one is home. Check all components regularly for any damage and repair or replace as needed. The most likely components to cause water to leak near or on internal wires are the plastic pieces that release the detergent. These are located on the inside of the door and can break through regular use. If there are any suspected malfunctions, have a professional come take a look.
Check the Cords
Inspect the power cord regularly for signs of wear. The dishwasher should be plugged directly into a wall socket that is grounded. Do not use extension cords as a permanent way to power any appliances. When inspecting the power cord, make sure it is not frayed or showing other signs of damage. Do not run a power cord under carpeting, as this can lead to damage. If any issues are noticed, stop using your dishwasher until the power cord is replaced.
Fire Prevention Tips
Clean and maintain your dishwasher to help it last longer and to prevent any potential damages that could lead to a fire. Make sure there is a working smoking alarm in the room with the dishwasher. It’s a good idea to opt for one that is specifically designed for kitchens. These smoke alarms are not going to go off with normal cooking. There should also be a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Keep this within easy reach.
Though most people don’t think about the dishwasher as a potential fire hazard, they can cause fires if they are not properly maintained or if they end up damaged. Always keep an eye on appliances like the dishwasher and make sure there are no damaged components that could allow water to get near the electrical components. If so, stop use immediately until repairs are done. If you do ever need help with restoration for fire and water damage following a dishwasher fire, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration to do the job right.