How To Prevent Water Damage

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cuts after water damage in a home in Gladstone, MO.

How To Prevent Water Damage At a Residence

Maintenance is the best way to prevent water damage. A number of appliances and systems rely on water in the home in order to function. Learn more about how to prevent damage at a residence in Gladstone, MO.

Appliances

A number of appliances rely on water in order to function. This machinery includes:

• Dishwashers
  
• Washing machines
  
• Water heaters
  
  

Connections or hoses may fail and lead to leaks. It is a good idea to closely monitor these machines and have them regularly serviced for maintenance rather than just for repairs.

HVAC System

The HVAC system in a residence relies on water, particularly when cooling. Several common causes of leaks include:

• A dirty coil
  
• An icy coil
  
• A damaged overflow drain pan
  
• Clogged drain lines
  
  

Regular maintenance can also help to prevent HVAC leaks. Schedule a yearly inspection and cleaning to reduce the risk of water damage.

Plumbing

Plumbing is the major source of water in the home, and therefore one of the most common causes of damage. A homeowner should know the age and condition of pipes. Look out for any signs of:

• Leaks
  
• Sewage backups
  
• Malfunctioning toilets
  
• Corroded supply lines
  

If you have exposed pipes, it is a good idea to add insulation. You can also drip a faucet when temperatures dip below freezing to relieve the pressure that can lead to pipe bursts. Any incidents will necessitate broken pipe repair and water damage cleanup.

These appliances and systems are the most likely sources of damage due to water in the home. Even if you take preventative measures such as performing regular maintenance, an accident may still occur. In these instances, it is important to quickly arrange for pipe cleanup. Appliance specialists or plumbers can fix the cause of damage, and mitigation professionals can remove water and promote drying. These measures are necessary to keep damage from worsening or resulting in secondary issues, such as mold.