New year’s resolutions are in the air for the majority of us in January. We go to the gym, we stop shopping for donuts at the donut shop, and we spend less time scrolling aimlessly through Instagram. Having said that, why not make some resolutions for the health of your home this year as well?
While hurricanes, thunderstorms, and heavy rains are among the most common causes of flooding, there are many others as well. Several other factors can lead to surprise home water damage, such as sewage backups, frozen pipes, and leaking appliances.
You can help protect your home from water damage by making a few simple changes. In the spirit of preventing water damage in the coming year of 2022, we have put together a few home resolutions to help keep it from happening in the first place.
7 Tips to Follow To Help Prevent Water Damage
Maintain clean gutters and downspouts
Maintain your gutters by cleaning them twice a year to prevent ice damming and blockage. Having standing water on your roof or gutters can cause damage, while uncontrolled overflow can lead to puddles that damage your foundation. Do not forget to clean and secure your downspouts so water can flow through them easily and they point away from your home.
Don’t neglect your plumbing
In the event that you notice leaks, increased humidity in some areas, or mold in your home, act quickly to get the repair work done.
It is never a good idea to pour grease down the sink. Instead of using chemical products that damage pipes, use a drain snake to unclog your drain if it gets clogged.
If you have a sump pump, you should have it checked periodically by a plumber. You should consider adding a battery-powered pump so that you can use it in case of power outages.
Backflow valves keep water from backing up from the main municipal sewer. There might be a good reason for installing one if you live in an area where sewage backups are possible. If your home already has a backflow valve, have it checked by a plumber to ensure it is in good shape.
Lookout for leaks
Oftentimes, water leaks go undetected until extensive and costly damage has been done. This year, take some time to check around the shower, bathtub, sinks, and toilets for leaks.
Be sure to check your sink and faucets for dripping or leaking water, as well as your refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, and HVAC system for leaks. Depending on the leak’s severity, you may need to re-caulk, tighten, or replace the pipes.
It’s best to call the professionals if you notice a pool of water from a leaking toilet, sink, or appliance. A water damage restoration service can stop any further water damage from occurring and causing more harm by stopping the damage in its tracks.
Unplug the hoses
Your fall checklist should include disconnecting your hoses from the faucet. A hose full of water can freeze back into the pipe, creating an ice block that – at best – will stop the flow of water and, at worst, may break your pipes and cause damage to your walls, floors, and foundation.
Set up a water detection system
Water detectors are small electronic devices that sound an alarm when they detect moisture with their sensors. Among its main uses is the detection of moisture levels that may otherwise go undetected or leaks that may be slow. Keep it near water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, sump pumps, and toilets to avoid extensive damage and mold growth.
Routinely inspect appliances
You should check your appliances often for leaks, following the manufacturer’s instructions. In most homeowners’ insurance policies, the lack of maintenance is not covered. It is recommended to regularly upgrade and replace your hoses, including washing machine hoses, for quick water damage repair.
- Does the refrigerator have an ice maker or a water dispenser? Verify the water line hose running between the refrigerator and the wall. If it leaks, fix it.
- Keep up with your water heater’s maintenance once a year. Keep an eye out for slow leaks, pools of water, and rusted or corroded areas. Consider switching to an on-demand water heater or one without a tank to save money on your electric bill.
- Make sure your AC unit is properly maintained during the hot summer months by checking for leaks or water damage.
- During the winter, attics are a prime climate for mold growth and humidity. Woods become saturated with water, which allows mold to grow and spread, which is a health hazard as well as a home hazard.
Assess your water bills
You should monitor your monthly water bill for leaks since they can go long before being discovered. That could indicate a problem.
Have you noticed a significant increase in your water bill since last month without apparent cause? This could indicate a hidden leak.
Basement and crawl space inspections are vital for your home. Inspect your sinks and bathtubs. Look for slow drips on your faucets. You might want to consult with a professional if you cannot identify an obvious cause.
Final Thoughts
Prevention is the best course to take when it comes to a water damaged house. These resolutions can help prevent damages from causing costly repairs and headaches.
Contact Kings Restoration if you experience water damage this year. Our highly-trained and certified team of experts will mobilize quickly and begin working immediately.
