Water Damage Caused by Home Appliances
Water damage can come from a variety of sources. One of the most common causes for water damage comes from failure of home appliances we all have and depend on every day. Find out which appliances in your home pose the greatest risks.
Washing Machines
The approximate lifespan of washing machines is anywhere between 5-15 years. Most water damage from washing machines occurs due to supply hose failure.Water Heater
Whether gas or electric, water heaters have an average life expectancy of about 10 years. Regular maintenance is the key to a water heater’s longer life. Water damage can result from cracks, slow leaks, sudden bursts, rusting, sediment build-up or heating element failure. At least once a year, inspect the pipes and shutoff valves.Toilets
Although the lifespan of most toilets is well over 25 years, water damage is primarily due to clogs and overflowing water. There can also be water damage risks if the toilet experiences problems with the valves used to fill, supply, and flush the toilet, or the supply line itself.Dishwashers
The life expectancy of dishwashers falls between 7-12 years, but there’s no guarantee it couldn’t fail sooner. When your dishwasher fails, water damage can result from leaking gaskets around the door when in use or damaged supply or drainage lines.Ice Makers
While ice makers in the freezer section of your refrigerator are very convenient, if the water lines become damaged or fail, you’re at high risk for water damage. If the lines are made of plastic or copper, durability is a factor, and the lines can easily become damaged or fail over time. Because the lines are hidden behind the refrigerator, you may not remember to check them before it’s too late. Checking them at least once a year for wear or damage is highly recommended.Sump Pumps
The job of a sump pump is to pump out any excess water in your home, typically in the basement, before a flood occurs. However, if the sump pump fails, the odds of flooding and water damage are almost imminent. Sump pump failure can be caused by:- Clogs or debris in the pump
- Clogged discharge lines
- Sump pump is the wrong size for the pit
- Broken pump valves
- Improperly connected
- Power outages
