Water Damage from Plumbing and Appliances

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Plumbing issues and household appliances are often the cause of home water damage problems.

Plumbing issues and household appliances are often the cause of home water damage problems. At times the issue will not be obvious, a tell-all for water issues in the home can be a water bill increase. If you notice your water bill has increased dramatically or perhaps the obvious signs like constant running or leaky toilets, faucets that drip while being turned off properly, a dishwasher or washing machines that may pose water puddles near -  it is time to make some adjustments to our plumbing or appliances. 

How to Prevent Water Damage from Plumbing and Appliances

Toilets

1. Check for a constantly running toilet or a leaky toilet.
2. Two times a year, check the toilet for any issues such as the fill, supply, flush valves, and supply line.
3. Ensure you could turn off the water supply if you needed to. Understand how and make sure that the valves are not too hard to turn.

Water Heaters

1. Flush water heaters twice a year to remove any sediments. If you do not know how to do this, hire someone to do it for you.
2. Inspect the anode rod every two years to determine if in good shape or if in need of repair.
3. Annual inspections are advisable by a plumbing professional.

Washing Machines

1. Check hot and cold supply lines monthly.
2. Look for blisters in hoses, worn tubing, stress cracks, or any loose connections.
3. Replace the supply hose if it shows signs of wear and tear.
4. If there are any loose connections, tighten them. The most common issue with loose connections would be where the hose bends.
5. Replace supply hoses at least every five years, even if there is no damage to the hose.

Plumbing Problems

1. This is where the high-water bill comes in at. If there isn’t an obvious sign of plumbing issues but you are presented a larger than normal water bill, it could very well be the plumbing. Contact a plumber if your bill has increased and there is not a logical reason for this to happen.
2. You may hear banging pipe noises, spot rust stains, moisture spots, or wet soil erosion near the foundation of the home. If you do, these can be signs of plumbing issues as well. This is a great time to contact a plumber.
3. Keep grease out of drains, this can cause plumbing issues down the road.
4. Ensure you plant trees or do outdoor work away from any drain lines to ensure you do not damage pipes. Keep in mind when planting where drain lines are located so that when they grow the roots do not cause plumbing issues later in time.