Targeting The Two Most Common Sources Of Indoor Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims in the U.S. When considering the availability of water in and around our homes, this statistic is not at all surprising. It is hard to protect your home from potential water damage when there are so many possible sources. Alert Disaster wanted to make prevention a little easier by warning homeowners in Tehachapi about the two most common sources of indoor water damage, and different ways that you can be proactive to help prevent possible water damage. 

1. Leaking or burst pipes

One of the most common (if not the most common) sources of water damage, is from leaking or burst pipes. Pipes can leak when connections have become loose, or as they begin to deteriorate over time. Pipes will burst when pressure inside the pipe builds too high for it to maintain. Too much water pressure coming into your home, clogs or buildup, and frozen water in pipes are all common causes of high water pressure and strain in our plumbing. Once this pressure exceeds the pipe’s threshold, it will cause the pipe to burst so the pressure can release. Some ways to help prevent pipes from leaking and bursting are:

• Check pipe connections regularly to ensure they are tight 
• Monitor the water pressure going into your home with a gauge
• Keep drains clean and clear to avoid clogs and buildup that can decrease or restrict the flow of water
• Insulate pipes that are exposed to colder temperatures
• Watch for signs of water damage near pipes so you can catch leaks before they lead to serious problems

2. Faulty or worn household appliances

Hot water tanks and washing machines are the two most common household appliances that cause water damage in our homes. Hot water tanks constantly hold gallons and gallons of water and are always refilling themselves whenever water is used. Because of their design to always stay full, when tanks crack and leak, water will flow freely into your home until it is shut off. Washing machines can use anywhere between 20-40 gallons of water with each load. When the water supply hose becomes loose or begins to leak as it degrades over time, gallons and gallons of water will flood into your home. Here are a few ways you can prevent possible water damage from hot water tanks and washing machines:

• Keep up with routine maintenance on your water heater to avoid build up inside the tanks which leads to increased pressure inside the tank, which then causes the tank to crack and leak.
• Install a pressure gauge on your water heater tank ? if your tank already has a pressure gauge, make sure to check it regularly.
• Check the water supply hose on your washing machine regularly for signs of deterioration, cracking, or anything else that may compromise its integrity.
• Ensure all hose connections are tight.
• Replace the hose every 3-5 years to keep it from degrading.

In the case of water damage, please don’t hesitate to contact our experts at Alert Disaster. We are more than happy to help walk you through the restoration process and bring your home back to its pre-loss condition.