The Top 4 Appliances That Cause Water Damage

5 min read

Detroit has experienced more frequent flooding due to climate change and a deteriorating stormwater system. With this, natural disasters are not the only cause of water damage in your home. Some of the appliances you use every day can also be the source of water leaks and damage to your property, especially if left unchecked.

Some appliances use significant amounts of water to function, and even the slightest issue could create an overwhelming mess and stress in your living spaces, ultimately forcing you to enlist water damage restoration in Detroit.

Fortunately, issues from an appliance water leak are preventable. Here are some of the top machines that commonly cause water damage and practical tips to help you keep your home safe and dry.

Refrigerator

Excess moisture naturally forms around the base of your refrigerator as it continues working. This is not a cause for concern when your unit functions the way it should. However, it can start an appliance water leak when a blockage occurs around the drain line. Once moisture builds up, the clogged line causes water to flow out of the refrigerator and onto the floor.

Improper sealing, water supply line issues, an overcrowded freezer, or problems with the ice maker are other common causes of refrigerator leaks.

Whatever the cause may be, it helps to remember that water leaking from your refrigerator and pooling underneath the unit can cause damage to your floors and walls and electrical failures. Excess water and moisture inside your appliance can also promote microbial growth and contaminate your food.

Regularly checking your refrigerator for improper sealing, blocked durian lines, and other issues can help prevent or catch water damage early.

Washing Machine

Gallons of water are used when washing machines run. This means that any issue with the gasket, seal, hose, or pump could easily flood your home and put it in disorder. Faulty gaskets or seals commonly produce small leaks in front-loading washers. On the other hand, problems with hose connections or the water pump often cause leaks from behind or beneath the unit.

One practical way to avoid inconveniencing washing machine issues is to inspect your unit’s hoses monthly for any cracks, leaks, or signs of rust. It’s also a good idea to replace them every five years, even if they still look sturdy from the outside.

Dishwasher

A leaky dishwasher is another common source of residential water damage that can be caused by various factors, like the following:

• A dishwasher that is not level.
• A faulty gasket or seal.
• Using regular dish soap instead of the required dishwasher detergent.
• Overloading or incorrect loading of dishes.
• Cracks or bulges in the hose.
• Malfunctioning valves.

Unfortunately, leaks and other issues with dishwashers often happen overnight or when no one is at home, allowing water to flow out of the appliance and into homes uninterrupted. What’s worse is that flooding inside your kitchen can cause damage to your floors and cabinets, unsightly stains, and even electrical issues.

Besides regularly inspecting its connections and ensuring the unit is level, only using soap designed for dishwashers helps you steer clear of avoidable overflows. It also pays to remember that these appliances are typically designed to last ten years. If your unit is nearing or already past its tenth birthday, it’s best to consider getting a replacement.

Hot Water Heater

Water heaters are crucial in keeping households warm and comfortable, especially during Michigan’s cold months. When they fail due to leaks and other complications, the loss of the hot water supply is often a last concern. Since these appliances can hold as much as 80 gallons of water, a sudden burst can cause significant property damage and even injuries.

Enlisting regular inspections is one of the best yet easiest ways to avoid such a scenario. If you notice water pooling around your unit, an unexplainable shortage of hot water, or hissing sounds, make sure to get your water heating equipment repaired as soon as possible.

Tips for Preventing Appliance Leaks and Water Damage

Here are some more general pointers worth keeping in mind to protect your home from appliance leaks and water damage:

• If you will be away from home for an extended period, turn off and unplug appliances that use water.
• Ensure all water supply pipes or hoses are free of cracks.
• Consider upgrading your rubber hoses to steel braided ones for better durability.
• Follow the manual’s recommendations regarding your appliance’s routine inspection and maintenance.
• When repairs are becoming too frequent, consider replacing your machine.

Enlist Water Damage Restoration in Detroit Immediately for Existing Damage

Prevention is always better than cure, and it’s always best to catch issues before they happen. With that said, leaks can still strike even the most prepared homeowner.

If an unchecked seepage has already started to affect your floors, walls, drywall, or ceilings, know that the situation is not hopeless. Getting help from licensed restoration professionals can help you not only address the mess but also return your home to its pre-damage condition as soon as possible.

Restoration 1 is an IICRC-certified restoration company offering water damage restoration in Detroit. We are available 24/7 to prevent or repair any water damage and, most importantly, get your property back to normal. Give us a call today, and our experts will show up within an hour for an honest and transparent assessment.