Watch out for these water damage culprits

Water damage is a serious issue, and it doesn’t take much to cause it. A minor leak left untreated can be enough to cause extensive damage. While water damage can be caused by severe weather and flash flooding, malfunctioning appliances and plumbing within your home can cause major water damage, too. Taking some preventative measures can minimize your risk of water damage. 

Pipes

Start by checking your pipes. Over time, just one small drip can lead to severe issues, including things like mold infestations and structural damage. Get any leaks or broken pipes inspected and repaired by a professional plumber.  

Appliances

Your pipes aren’t all you need to check. Your appliances can also pose a risk, so regularly check and maintain any machine with a water supply. Even a refrigerator without an ice maker or water dispenser accumulates water in the drip tray, which can overflow or promote mold or mildew growth. Improperly sealed freezers will work harder and collect more condensation while raising your electric bill. Water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers are common sources of water damage. Ensure all seals and gaskets are working correctly, and that pipe connections don’t come undone.

Each appliance may differ, so consult the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. These manuals contain vital information, including how frequently you should have your appliances inspected to keep them running smoothly. Between inspections, remember to keep an eye out for any signs of malfunction. These signs can include pools of water, unexplained moisture, and mold or mildew growth. 

Water Supply Tubes

The next thing you need to worry about is flexible water supply tubes. They’re excellent 

for rust prevention and working in tight spaces, but unfortunately, they also deteriorate faster than other materials and often form cracks or leaks, or even bursts. 

Flexible water supply tubes tend to come standard with most appliances, but they aren’t necessarily the best option. In some cases, replacing the default flexible water supply tubes with a more sturdy and longer-lasting option like PVC may be a better idea. When using a flexible hose, it’s essential to compare the placing of your appliances with the size and length of the tubing you’ll need. Too short of a line length will pull the hose too tight and strain the connections. On the other hand, using too much extra hose can cause it to fold over, causing a kink in the water supply line. Such a fold will become a weak point in the line and could lead to cracks and leakage in the future.  

What to Do If Appliances or Water Fixtures Flood

Even when you’ve taken all the right steps and implemented every preventative measure, there’s a chance that one appliance or another might flood. If the toilet becomes the issue, it’s especially bad news unless it’s the clean water line. Nothing will ruin your day like an overflowing toilet or a backed-up sewer line. 

Before doing anything else, turn off the main water supply to prevent an even more flooded bathroom or affected area. After you shut off the water, move any nearby furniture or possessions that aren’t already ruined to a dry place to avoid further water damage. 

If a clogged drain or sink is causing the issue, use a plunger to remove the blockage. Once you’ve shut off the water and there’s no more liquid flooding the area, begin cleaning up as much of the standing water as you can. Call in a restoration company to repair and restore anything that’s been severely damaged, like flooring, walls, and carpeting. If the issue is a toilet, it may be a good idea to wait until after you talk to the emergency plumbing expert before you attempt to flush it again. Never handle broken water heaters by yourself, as it may be dangerous. Instead, find the shut-off valves to prevent additional leakage and wait for professional help.

AdvantaClean

You’ll most likely need a team of water damage restoration experts to come out and help you fix a few things. Unfortunately, these things often have the worst timing, happening at night, on weekends, or during a holiday. That’s why we’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for emergencies. Don’t let water damage stay unaddressed, or the damage will only worsen. 

Instead, contact the team of experienced water damage restoration specialists at AdvantaClean. We’ve got years of experience to help you remediate whatever damage you have. Reach out to our 24/7 call center to get help right away!.