We all depend on household appliances to run an efficient home. They help us cook, clean, store food and perform essential domestic tasks. But when you don’t maintain them properly, they can lead to big issues, many of which can cause costly damage and big-time inconvenience. We’re talking about leaks, and the extensive water damage that can result.
This water damage can warp hardwood floors, saturate carpets, lead to mold growth, and cause structural problems as well, especially if not addressed in a timely manner. Here’s a look at the top appliances that cause water damage.
1. Dishwashers Cause Water Damage
Dishwashers use up a lot of water to get your plates and utensils clean. When there’s a problem with a hose or other component, that torrent of water can leak through the doors and spill out onto your floor. This can occur from age and normal wear and tear or from the improper use of the unit itself, from excess soap to overloading.
Leaks can also originate from under the dishwasher where you can’t see them, such as from a cracked hose, broken gasket or loose connection. Ignoring water accumulation will lead to flooring damage and mold growth.
2. Refrigerators Cause Water Damage
Where would we be without refrigerators? Stocked with food and drink, the fridge is a mainstay of the kitchen. But when there’s a leak, it can prove disastrous. This appliance is prone to water damage, even though it doesn’t even come close to using as much water as the dishwasher.
Pipes can get cracked over time, causing big floods very quickly. Be careful when pulling out the fridge to clean behind it, as all that back-and-forth motion can bend or break tubing. You may not notice leaks at first, as those water lines are hidden behind and under the fridge.
3. Washing Machines Cause Water Damage
One of the most common causes of water damage is your washing machine. As you know, it uses a lot of water for every load of laundry, and when a water hose leaks, breaks or comes loose, a flood can result. You can also get water damage if you have clogged, broken, or misaligned pipes, or if there’s a leak in the machine’s drum. Just like with the above two appliances, these leaks may go unnoticed for a while – at least until you use the washing machine the next time.
Preventing Water Damage Issues
There are some things you can do to ensure water damage doesn’t occur. Regular maintenance is key. Routinely inspect these appliances to make sure everything is in good working order. Replace damaged parts, pipes and lines as needed before they become a problem.
But even when you’re dedicated to regular maintenance, things can still go wrong. In that case, call a plumber to fix the initial emergency situation, then place a call to a trusted water damage restoration company that can come in after the fact to provide mitigation services.
Contact 1st Class Carpet Cleaning and Restoration Services
Our team can visit your home or business after an appliance leak, pump out the excess water, inspect for mold or structural issues, remove ruined flooring materials such as carpet and padding, and thoroughly dry the area. Don’t hesitate to call us at (248) 491-3088 for a free quote and consultation in the event you require water damage restoration services in Metro Detroit.
