Prevent Pipe And Appliance Water Damage in Springfield Missouri

Prevent Pipe And Appliance Water Damage in Springfield Missouri

One of the biggest reasons that homeowners have to make a claim with their insurance company is because of water damage. The biggest risks for water damage are the pipes and appliances in your home, especially if they’re not maintained properly.

Make sure you take the following steps to prevent pipe and appliance water damage in Springfield Missouri that can lead to expensive repairs and a lot of headaches to deal with.

Sinks, Showers, and Tubs

Use a flashlight to look under the kitchen and bathroom sinks at least once every few months. Especially if the plumbing is hidden inside a vanity. If there are any signs of a leak or rust, call a plumber to have it fixed fast.

Check out areas near the showers and tubs for any swelling or discoloration, as these can be indications of hidden leaks. Check for cracks in the caulking and tile grout or any signs of mold. If any issues are detected, recaulk the area and keep an eye on it.

Water Heater

Check the base of your water heater for any signs of leaks and have your water heater professionally inspected every five years. If your water heater is more than ten years old, you should consider having it replaced to prevent rusting or cracking from sediment settling inside.

Your water heater should be on the lowest level of your home. But if it can’t be, make sure you place a drain pan underneath it that’s connected to a floor drain.

Washing Machine and Dishwasher

Every three years, it’s a good idea to replace the hoses that connect the washing machine and the dishwasher to the water supply. Upgrade to high-pressure and metal-mesh hoses as they are more durable than the plastic hoses and will last longer.

Automatic Ice Maker

Most full-sized refrigerators have an automatic ice maker that is connected to the water supply. If the refrigerator needs to be moved, make sure the hose or pipe for the ice maker is not bent or damaged. Check this regularly for any signs of damage and replace if needed.

Appliance Hoses

It is a good idea to check all of the appliance hoses every four months for any signs of damage or other issues. Look for any blisters, bulges, or cracks, and make sure the connections are secure. Feel near the connections for any signs of moisture. If any of the hoses are damaged, replace them right away.

Throughout Your Home

Prepare for the possibility of a water leak by learning where the main water shutoff valve is located and how to operate it. You should also consider purchasing a leak detection device to place near any areas that are more likely to have leaks. These produce noise if water is detected, so steps can be taken to prevent extensive water damage. If you are going out of town for more than a week, turn off the water to the home to prevent unexpected leaks while you’re gone.

Water leaks can end up causing significant damage to the home if they’re undetected for a long time or if they let out a lot of water at once. If you ever experience water damage from pipes or appliances, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration. They’ll do the water damage restoration job right.