Extensive
water damage is one of the most devastating types of catastrophes a
homeowner can face. One serious occurrence of water damage can destroy a
home’s building materials, wreck homeowner property and heirlooms, and
can also create a toxic and dangerous environment requiring arduous
clean up. Fortunately, many of the causes of water damage are
preventable, if you take proactive steps to stop problems before they
start. Here are some tips on how to do so.
Water Heaters
Water heater leaks are a common cause of basement flooding. Proper
maintenance of your water heater is crucial to maximize its life
expectancy. Periodically, have a plumber perform a check up on the
heater. He or she should inspect the anode rod inside the tank, and
replace it if needed, since this rod serves to protect the tank from
corrosion. Also, make sure the tank’s glass lining, pipes, and valves
are in good condition. Replace worn out parts. Finally, remove sediment
from the tank every 6 months by flushing the water heater.
Basement Flooding
Make sure you have a reliable primary sump pump installed in your
sump pit, as well as a backup sump pump system that can protect your
basement during periods when a storm knocks out your power.
Additionally, ensure that each of the pumps have sufficient capacity to
handle the water volume that could potentially flow into your basement.
Washing Machines
Regularly inspect your washing machine. Be on the lookout for valves
that do not work properly, as well as worn out supply hoses. Hoses tend
to crack in places where they bend sharply. Replace old or worn hoses
with the steel braided type for maximum durability.
Toilets
The simplest way to prevent toilet-related water damage is to simply
stay in the bathroom until the toilet has finished refilling. Beyond
that, take note if your toilet starts to run between uses, a sign that
components are beginning to fail. Also, inspect your toilet a couple of
times per year. Make sure the valves inside the tank work properly and
the supply line is connected securely.
Water Leak Detection
Utilize leak detection and automatic water shutoff systems to keep
small leaks from turning into extensive water damage. If you can detect a
leak early on, you will be left with only a small mess to clean up,
instead of a large scale disaster.
Plumbing System
Keep an eye out for signs of potential leaks in your plumbing system.
Are your water bills higher than they should be? Do you see signs of
moisture on your walls or floors? Make sure your water shutoff valve
works properly – test it regularly! If you live in a cold weather
region, take measures to prevent frozen pipes. For example, during
extremely cold periods, open your faucets slightly to reduce pressure in
your pipes. Also, keep the temperature in your home above 60 degrees,
even if no one is home.
Through regular preventive maintenance and by monitoring
potential trouble spots in your home, you can stop many types of water
damage before they occur.
