Many of the appliances in our homes cycle through a good bit of water, making water damage a possibility. Here’s what to look at:

Hot Water Heater
Hot water heaters can last for more than a decade and a half, but leaks can start much sooner than this. When parts break down over time, it can let water escape, which can lead to a serious issue over time.

Refrigerator
Most modern refrigerators contain ice dispensers or water filters that are connected to the house’s main water line. This introduces the potential for leaks. Refrigerators are also very infrequently moved, making it possible for leaks to linger for a long time before water damage is spotted.

Dishwasher
Dishwashers are another appliance that often sits back in a cubby without being moved. To compound matters, insurance policies may not cover damage from leaking dishwashers if they’re past a certain lifespan. This makes regularly checking your dishwasher for leaks even more important.

Washing Machine
It’s not the washing machine itself that could be the issue—the hoses used with the machine machine can deteriorate over time. You should inspect the hoses every 30 days and replace them every five years even if they have not caused any issues.

Air Conditioner
All air conditioning units create moisture as they run, and mechanisms within the AC unit typically drain that moisture away. Sometimes, however, these mechanisms can fail—leading to leaks that may not be discovered immediately depending on the location of your unit. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance checks to look for leaks and other damage, and also check the unit yourself periodically.

If your home has been impacted by water damage or you’d like to put a plan in place in case it happens to you, contact us to learn how we can help.