Tips for Limiting Water Damage

3/19/2015 (Permalink)

 Water damage is a serious issue.  For the period 2004-2008, compensation for losses incurred from water damage was the second highest type of claim on homeowner insurance policies. Even a small crack in a water pipe can release a huge amount of water in a relatively short time. Problems caused by water are seven times more common than fire damage and six times more common than burglary, so it makes sense to be aware of some of the causes of leaks and flooding in the home and what you can do to prevent them happening to you.

Clogged drains and toilets

Soap residues, grease, hair, food waste, and other items can all contribute to clogs in drains and toilets. The build up is usually gradual and can be detected by slow drainage. Any such problem should be dealt with quickly as a back surge of contaminated water can be very unpleasant and constitutes a significant health hazard. Clean your drains regularly and make sure that unsuitable items and substances are not flushed down the toilet.

Pipework

Over time, pipes begin to degrade and cracks can appear. The natural shifting of the foundations of your house can also put stresses on to your pipework that can cause cracking and lead to leakage. Where pipes are hidden beneath flooring or within walls, the first signs may be damp patches appearing. These should always be investigated to determine their cause and enable remedial action to be undertaken in a timely fashion.

Washing machines

The intake hoses to your washing machine are always under pressure and are a common source of leaks. Make sure the connections are tight and, if you have plastic or rubber hoses, it is better to replace them with reinforced steel braided ones. In any event, the hoses should be replaced every five years. When you are leaving the house empty for a few days, turn off the water supply to your washer.

Water Heater

Water heaters can corrode over time and the points where water enters and leaves are prone to rusting. The typical life span of a water heater is about ten years. Inspect your heater regularly and replace it if you observe signs of corrosion. Look for a heater with a long warranty.

Overflowing Drain Pans

Air conditioning and heating systems have drainage pans to collect condensation and other waste water which can overflow if not emptied from time to time. Clogs can occur if routine maintenance is not carried out. Your AC should be regularly serviced to ensure it is working efficiently and inspecting the drainage line is an important part of this inspection. It is possible to have a float switch installed which cuts off the system of a blockage occurs.

These are the most common areas from which floods and leaks can arise. The best way to protect your home and your family from water damage is to pay attention to any signs of a problem and take action straightaway to determine its nature and what needs to be done to set things right. Make sure you know where your main valve is located and how to turn it off in the event of an emergency. Prevention is better than cure. Some flood events are beyond our control and for those, there are specialist contractors who can deal with water removal and remediation of property to minimize their effects.