Common Sources Of Water Damage

Keeping your home in Panama City free from water damage is an impossible task. There are so many potential causes that it can be overwhelming to think about how to safeguard our home. However, being aware of the most common sources can help you keep an eye out for water damage and be prepared for if and when it does occur. Here are just a few common water sources you should be aware of:

1. Leaking Pipes

Pipes that leak or burst is one of the most common culprits of water damage. Too much pressure in pipes causes increased strain, which most often leads to bursts. Pipes will also begin to corrode and rust as they age so old pipes are more prone to leaks. Check your pipes regularly for leaks and signs of corrosion, and monitor the water pressure going into your home in order to reduce the risk of water damage from leaking pipes. 

2. Malfunctioning Appliances

There are a number of household appliances that use water, and each one poses a threat to your home. 

• Washing Machines: Washing machines pump anywhere between 10 and 40 gallons of water through their water hoses per load. The connections of these hoses need to be checked regularly to be sure that they are tight and not leaking. These hoses should also be replaced every 3-5 years to avoid deterioration.
• Dishwashers: Dishwashers need to be kept clean to avoid water from building up and leaking out. The drain inside the dishwasher also needs to be kept clean. If that drain gets clogged, it can mean bad news for your kitchen floors. The water supply line should also be checked to make sure it is secure and not leaking.
• Water Heaters: Water heaters cause catastrophic flooding in basements if they leak. Because they are designed to constantly refill with water, they have the potential to leak unlimited amounts of water into your home. To avoid water heater leaks, you should have them inspected routinely. 
• HVACS: Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning units require regular servicing, and if not maintained can cause excess moisture buildup. This buildup will eventually have to find somewhere to go, which, consequently, ends up being in your home. 

3. Clogged Drains/Toilets

When drains get clogged, water will back up. Water flows the path of least resistance, and when it has nowhere to go it ends up flooding over into any available space. Toilets will overflow when clogged also, and no one wants to deal with sewage water damage in their home. You can install drain catchers to help keep debris from going down the drain and causing clogs. Slow draining is a common sign of a blockage or buildup, so you should get it checked before it turns into a clog. If you can’t get a clog to resolve, call a professional to come to help you out. 

Regardless of the source of your Panama City water damage emergency, Daystar Cleaning and Restoration is here to help. We provide an immediate response, 24/7, 365 days to help minimize damage to your home. We know how stressful water damage is, and we will respond quickly so that your life and property can get back to normal as soon as possible.