Tips To Avoid Water Damage in Your Home

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Tips to Avoid Water Damage in Your Home

Although many of the water emergencies that SERVPRO of Sussex County responds to are caused by Mother Nature and are unforeseen and unpreventable; there are many that can be prevented.  The following checklist may help you be prepared in the face of such man made water troubles.

• Disconnect hoses. Standing water in a hose may freeze and create blockage that can lead to bursting pipes.
• Clean Gutters and Downspouts. Clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent clogging and possible ice formations in the gutters.  Clogged gutter will cause water to drain close to your house which can lead to an intrusion of ground or drain water.
• Maintain trees and vegetation. Make sure there are no root systems which may interfere with your pipes.  Always minimize landscaping near utility pipes.
• Know where your water main is. In any home water emergency the first remedy is to typically turn the water off at the main.  Time is precious during such an event so familiarize yourself with this issue.
• Check your appliances regularly. An old failing dishwasher, hot water heater, ice maker or washer can be the culprit in many home water losses – so check them regularly.
• Investigate and fix any leaks as soon as they occur. Ongoing water leaks can lead to mold and other secondary damage.
• Upgrade washing machine hoses. This is another major area of concern so check them regularly.
• Install water detection devices. These are more readily available and can help with such emergencies but keep in mind they only alert you to an issue that may have been preventable.
• Check your home water pressure and make sure it is not too high. High water pressure can strain pipes and cause wear.
• Monitor your water bill. This may sound silly – but if your sprinkler system is leaking underground – the only way you will know is if your water consumption is rising.