Usually, when you have water damage in your home, it’s evident to the naked eye. You’ll spot the telltale signs of paint blistering, wallpaper peeling, and dark patches on the ceiling. These are all common symptoms of a plumbing leak.
However, when an appliance leaks, it can be silent. The source of all your water damage problems may be right in front of you inside your home, but the signs are difficult to notice. A washing machine, water heater, dishwasher, HVAC system, standalone freezer, or any number of household appliances that connect to the water supply can lead to leaks and damage.
Preventing Water Damage
It’s not always possible to prevent an appliance leak. Still, you can certainly take steps to reduce the risk. You can minimize – sometimes even prevent – the ensuing water damage. Here is how to avoid water damage from an appliance leak:
- Inspections – Like your plumbing system, your water-based appliances should be inspected and maintained by an expert plumber on a routine basis. When you schedule plumbing maintenance, ensure that the technician looks at your dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances.
- Hoses – On occasion, it is smart to replace the water hose on your dishwasher and washing machine. Over time, these hoses tend to deteriorate. At the first sign of wear, replace the hose to prevent a severe leak in the system.
- Water Supply – When you do notice an appliance leak, immediately turn off the water supply. Teach everyone in your home how to operate the water shutoff valve, too. In doing so, you can prevent extensive water damage to your floors, walls, and possessions.
Causes of Appliance Water Leaks
Now you know how to prevent water damage from a pesky appliance water leak. You must also understand the typical causes of such leaks:
- Water Heaters – When you have a water heater leak, chances are you have a cracked or damaged pipe, loose fitting, or a corroded tank.
- Washing Machine – A water leak stemming from a washing machine is often because of a burst pipe. Such a leak may happen quickly and cause extensive damage. A slower leak is typically caused by a worn-down hose or loose fitting.
- Dishwasher – A leaking dishwasher is usually caused by an issue with the drain line or supply line. A drain line leak can be fast or slow and may contain bacteria in the line. A supply line leak is almost always fast-paced and leads to extensive damage.
- Refrigerator – A refrigerator leak is frequently caused by a built-in ice maker, which requires a water supply line. If this line is worn down or ruptures, gallons of water will be displaced all over the surrounding floor and room.
If you find yourself dealing with an appliance water leak, contact Hawaii Restoration Services at (808) 468-7978. We provide immediate water damage restoration for homeowners and local businesses throughout the area. Give us a call today!