When you think of the main causes of water damage, you most likely picture an act of nature like floods, hurricanes, or fires. Although those three things are at the top of the list for major catastrophes, there are plenty of little things around your home or office that can cause big problems. You may have already encountered a few of these hidden places for water damage, while some of these other areas may not be on your radar. We’re here to help you get ahead of any potential hidden water damage emergencies in homes and businesses with this handy checklist!
Leaky or Damaged Pipes
Ok. This one is pretty obvious. And if you’ve been a home or business owner for several years, then you’ve probably dealt with leaky or rusted pipes. If you’re new to the home or business ownership world, you should frequently check any exposed pipes under sinks, in basements, or attached to water heaters for any leaks, drips, or excessive moisture. If you spot a leaky pipe, don’t just put a bucket or pan under it and set reminders on your phone to dump it every few hours. If possible, shut the water off on that particular pipe and call your plumber. Over time, a little leak or a steady drip can lead to rot, mildew, or mold. For pipes that are hidden behind walls and ceilings, you should check those areas for any stains, leaks, drips, or dampness. If you spot any of those signs, you should shut your water off and call a specialist. The longer your wait, the worse your chances of major water damage.
Improper Air Conditioner Installation
If you use window air conditioners in your house or workplace, be sure that you are properly installing the units according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s very common for folks to put the air conditioners in the window without slightly tilting the unit. Window ac units need to be slightly tilted away from the building so the condensation runs into the drip pan and not into your windowsill or walls. If you don’t tilt the window unit, water will puddle on your floor, run down your wall, rot your windowsill and frame – and worse – could cause the air conditioner to fall and injure someone.
Broken Water Lines On Refrigerator
Refrigerators with water dispensers and ice makers are so convenient when you want an ice-cold glass of water after a morning jog or mowing the lawn. These helpful fridge accessories are also a great place for water damage to hide. Over time, the line that connects the water dispenser and ice maker can break or become damaged which can lead to leaks and possible water damage. If you notice puddles of water around your fridge, turn off the water supply valve that connects the water line from your sink to the refrigerator. Then unplug the fridge. To prevent injury, you should call a refrigerator maintenance specialist to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.
Clogged Gutters and Drains
Rain gutters are the unsung heroes of homes and businesses. They prevent stormwater from pooling on your roofs and allow it to run off and away from buildings and foundations – unless they’re clogged. Rain gutters also collect the other elements found with storms and changes of the season such as leaves, twigs, dirt, and debris – and that can prevent them from doing their job. Clogged rain gutters can lead to a variety of water damage incidents like basement floods, roof leaks, and more. To prevent clogs from leading to water damage emergencies, it’s best to clean your gutters at the start of every season.
Just like rain gutters, the drains in your sinks and tubs are susceptible to clogging from food, hair, and other bits of debris. If you notice that water is slow to flow down your drains, your drain may need something as simple as a quick clearing with a plunger or a more involved cleaning with a drain snake. If left uncleared, a clogged drain can back up and lead to flooded, water-damaged rooms and floors.
These are a few of the hidden places of water damage in your home or office. If you use this checklist and perform routine maintenance, you should be one step ahead of any water damage emergencies. If you do experience a water damage emergency, please know that we’re just a phone call away to help you save your home or business from excessive demolition. FloodCo USA is all about saving and restoring your structure – and not ripping and removing. Contact us today to learn more about how we help you during a water damage emergency.
