Three Appliances That Can Cause Residential Water Damage

One of the main causes of residential flooding is our appliances. Both water damage and flooding can occur when appliances fail or their utility connections wear out or break. Understanding which appliances put your home at risk of flooding, can help you monitor and inspect them for signs of breakdown. Thus, preventing your home from flooding.

Here are 3 household appliances to keep your eye on for water damage

1. Washing Machine

Washing machines can hold up to 19 gallons of water. The sheer amount of water this appliance uses is the reason that it is the leading cause of appliance home flooding. Water damage can occur when the water and drainage hoses leak, break, or detach from the pipes. The pipes themselves can clog, leak, or become misaligned. Water damage can also be caused when the internal drum of the washing machine breaks or leaks. Many times this water damage can go unnoticed because it is subtle until it is a large problem. So it is a good idea to regularly inspect your washing machine and connections for any damage. Then replace any parts before they become problems. Another option is to place the appliance on a washing machine pan.

2. Dishwasher

Another common appliance that can cause household flooding is the dishwasher. Dishwashers can use up to 14 gallons of water per load. Dishwashers tend to leak as a result of normal wear and tear, so it is really important to keep an eye on them. They can develop leaks on the doors and underneath. They can also experience damage to the hoses and pipe leaks. Like washing machines, oftentimes these leaks can go unnoticed as they are hidden. So just like washing machines, it’s good to check them regularly to make sure there is no damage. You can also place the dishwasher on a dishwasher pan to catch any of the water.

3. Refrigerator

Refrigerators can cause leaks in two ways. First is refrigerators that filter cold water and provide ice that is connected to your household plumbing. Like other appliances the connection and pipes can become damaged, misaligned, and break over time, leading to leaks and water damage. Secondly, when refrigerators create cool air, they also trap a lot of moisture from the air. This condensation can create water damage. In the freezer, it can also build into chunks of ice that can start leaking. Regularly check your freezer for damage and if needed, place an absorbent mat under it to catch any excess condensation before it becomes water damage, a leak, or a household flood.

Monitoring these three appliances and doing regular maintenance will help prevent any water damage or flooding. Unfortunately, because of the design and location of these appliances, the water damage can often go unnoticed until it is too late. In those cases, a water damage restoration company, like Drywizard, can help. They will not only identify and solve the cause of the water damage, but they will also repair and restore your home.