Appliances That Commonly Cause Water Leaks

1/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by an overflowed dishwasher

There are an alarming number of situations that can cause water damage to homes—weather incidents, flooding and burst pipes often come to mind.

However, the source can also be from things we utilize every day, such as appliances that require water to operate. Prevention is key to stopping small, sneaky leaks from becoming a big problem, which is why we put together a guide of what appliances to watch out for and how to check them for drips.

What Appliances to Check for Water Damage

Hot Water Heater
Though hot water heaters can typically last as many as 15 years, they can begin leaking water much sooner due to faulty pipes and seals. Check regularly to avoid this from catching you by surprise, and be sure you replace it based on the manufacturer’s recommended time frame.

Refrigerator
The ice maker inside of the refrigerator pulls water in to manufacture the ice, but the tubing it uses to do so can often falter. Add that to the fact that refrigerators are seldom moved, and you have a recipe for water damage to get out of hand before you even realize it has begun. Simply pulling the fridge away from the wall and checking for drips regularly is enough to prevent this from becoming an issue that gets out of hand.

Dishwasher
A dishwasher can be another common culprit for secluded damage because of how they are typically built into cabinets. Pulling them out of their cubby often is wise, especially if you have an older model. It is not uncommon for homeowners’ insurance policies to not cover water damage from older appliances, so this is extra important to note.

Washing Machine
Washing machine leaks are such a common problem that it is recommended to check their hoses as frequently as once a month to guard against wear and tear. Even with regular checks, exercise caution by replacing these hoses every five years regardless of if they appear worn.

Air Conditioner
All air conditioning units manufacture condensation as part of their operations, but if there is an issue with their draining capabilities, issues can arise. The best way to prevent this is by following your manufacturer’s instructions regarding inspections and maintenance, as well as doing your own visual checks to ensure there is no water out of place in and around the unit.

If your home has been impacted by water damage or you’d like to put a plan in place in case it happens to you, contact us to learn how we can help.