The Usual Suspects: Washing Machines, Water Heaters, & Water Damage

Did you know that washing machines and water heaters are two of the top causes of residential water damage? These appliances are standard in almost all homes, but if not properly maintained and monitored, they can cause quite the headache!

Washing Machines: How and Why They Fail
Washing Machines are a must have appliance in today’s home, but that can quickly become a water damage nightmare. A broken hose can leak up to 600 gallons of water in an hour if not stopped.

The most likely culprit in washing machine leaks is the water supply hose. Either from long term use and wear, poor initial quality, or both, the water supply hose is the weak link in washing machines and causes more than half of all washing machine-related water damage.

The Metal Hose Myth
Because hoses are the main culprit, most people and some experts will tell you to always buy metal hoses. This may not always be the solution. Metal hoses can fail just as easily as rubber hoses. When metal hoses are bent, the steel will cut through the thin, unreinforced rubber tub can create a leak. So at this point, it may seem like a lost cause and homeowners are destined to have a washing machine related water leak and water damage. This is not the case.

Washing Machine Leak Prevention:

There are five steps you can take to prevent hose failures:

1. Make sure there is at least four inches between the water connection and the back of the washing machine to prevent kinks.
2. Regularly inspect the hoses for signs of wear and damage and make sure the connections are secure.
3. Buy a quality hose. Spend the extra money at the hardware store and get quality hoses with non-corroding brass inserts. Consider it an investment in stress and headache prevention.
4. Shut off the hot and cold water supply valves when the machine is not in use. This can be done manually or with an automatic shutoff valve
5. Never leave the washing machine on when you are sleeping or out of the house. Remember – a broken hose can leak up to 600 gallons in one hour.

Water Heaters
Water heaters are another staple appliance in today’s home. Most people couldn’t imagine waking up and taking a cold shower in the morning but the luxury of hot water does not come without a price. A water heater can cause massive amounts of water damage if not properly maintained. Homeowners must keep a close eye out for obvious signs of damage and continually maintain the appliance.

The Tell Tale Signs of Damage

1. Remember that the average age of a water heater is 13 years. After about the 10 year mark, pay careful attention to your water heater and signs of damage.
2. Look for obvious leaking in the collection tray or around the unit.
3. Examine the pipes and connections around the water heater for leaks, buildup, or corrosion.
4. If your water heater is talking to you, listen. Abnormal noises coming from your water heater can be the most obvious sign that something is wrong.

Pay attention to the appliances in your home, specifically the washing machine and the water heater! Simply being aware of the damage that can be caused if left unchecked is a step in the right direction. Follow the steps outlined here and avoid a costly water damage claim.

Rainbow International: Industry Leader and Innovator
Rainbow International provides “best practices” with integrity and the highest of standards in restoration and cleaning services. Utilizing the most advanced equipment, innovative technologies and a built-in accountability system, our professional emergency crews complete every job rapidly to assure an uncompromising commitment to service excellence and customer satisfaction. Ultimately, we don’t just restore homes and businesses; we restore value, stability, and peace of mind.

Established in 1981, Rainbow International, a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group®, offers over 300 global service locations. As a premier provider of restoration and cleaning services, Rainbow International deploys professional emergency response crews with advanced equipment, state-of-theart technology and training to restore property, contents and, ultimately, peace of mind. Insurance, commercial and residential customers depend on Rainbow International to mitigate damage and restore contents for businesses and homes suffering from water, fire, smoke, odor and mold situations.

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