Newgen floors

Watch Out For These Common Appliances That Can Cause Water Damage

When we hear water damage, we often think about flooding from hurricanes and tropical storms, or burst pipes during winter. However, water damage can also occur as a result of malfunctions and age-related degeneration of the very same appliances we rely on to make our life easier. It’s truly scary how easily an appliance malfunction could lead to costly water damage. In this article, we’ll explore the most common appliances likely to cause water damage and some ways to prevent this from happening.

Refrigerator

Refrigerators are essential for keeping things cold and delaying the spoilage of food. Unfortunately, they can experience leaks which usually start small then grow to become a really serious problem. Refrigerator leaks can be caused by simple issues like a cracked or broken gasket, or it could be a more complicated mechanical issue. To prevent any refrigerator issues, ensure the appliance is at least 4 inches away from the wall, and:

• Make sure your fridge seal doesn’t need replacing. The rubber seal along the fridge door is essential for keeping cool air in and warm air out. If the seal isn’t smooth, fully attached, or if it has cracks, tears, or other breaks, replace it immediately.
• Check the refrigerator drain pan and empty it as necessary. If there is a crack or a break in the pan, replace it immediately.
• See if the defrost drain is clogged. If it is, you should thaw the ice and flush the drain out with some hot water.
• Check that the ice maker isn’t broken. While convenient, the copper water line used to supply an ice maker can leak or become unattached if it’s not installed properly. Make sure to check the waterline for any crimps or to see if it becomes detached.

Dishwasher

Dishwashers are another appliance that can cause water damage. During the wash and rinse cycles, a dishwasher’s discharge or supply line can spring a leak and subsequently erupt, damaging the kitchen with gallons of water. Using too much or the wrong detergent, as well as a buildup of food, can also cause a dishwasher backup. Try to routinely inspect your dishwasher’s hoses and connections, and if your appliance is over nine years old, it may be time to consider getting a replacement.

Toilets, Bathtubs & Sinks

Toilets, bathtubs, and sinks can easily fall victim to blocked drains which lead to overflow. The plumbing in our bathrooms takes a serious hit each day with water, soap particles, hair care products, and other solid objects that will pass through on the way to the sewers. Some tips to implement:

• Always have a drain cover to filter out large, solid objects that may fall into your drainage pipe. Dispose of these particles in the trash.
• Avoid getting hair into your drains.
• Oil, fat, and grease can deposit and solidify in your drains. Avoid them as much as possible.

Water damage can be scary and needs to be addressed immediately. Just mopping it up with some towels isn’t enough, because once water hits your floors/walls it will start to spread and penetrate and can cause mold. If you have water damage or notice mold (which is a telltale sign that you have water damage), let the experts at NewGen Remediation Services handle it. We’re a full-service water damage restoration agency, and we’ll get you back up to normal in the fastest possible time. We’re also adept at handling your insurance to ensure everything you need done gets covered. For all your water damage needs, reach out to us at (980) 207-4868.