Water damage can be a real pain, and it’s not just something to worry about in the winter. Even during those summer months when you’re kicking back and enjoying the sun, your home can still suffer from sneaky leaks that go unnoticed and cause a ton of damage. Up to 37% of American homeowners have suffered losses as a result of water damage and it’s likely because they weren’t properly prepared. But don’t worry, we’ve got some helpful tips for you to follow to keep your home protected against water damage all year long.
1. Check Your Appliances Regularly
If you want to avoid water damage and keep your home in tip-top shape, you have to stay on top of things. First off, check your home appliances regularly, just like the manufacturer’s manual says. Don’t slack off on maintenance because most homeowners’ insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by neglect.
You must upgrade your hoses. Don’t let those old, worn-out washing machine hoses be the cause of a major water loss. Replace them regularly to avoid any nasty surprises. Oh, and speaking of appliances, does your fancy fridge have an ice maker or water dispenser? Don’t forget to inspect the water line hose that connects it to the wall. We don’t want any leaks ruining your cool vibes.
Moving on, give your water heater some attention at least once a year. Look out for slow leaks, water pooling, and any signs of rust or corrosion. And hey, maybe it’s time to consider upgrading to a tankless or on-demand water heater. It can save you some cash on that electric bill! Last but not least, your trusty AC unit. Give it some love and keep an eye out for leaks or water damage. Especially when it’s working overtime during those scorching summer months.
2. Keep Your Gutters Clear of Debris
Whilst leaves are the most common culprit of blocked gutters, don’t assume this is only an autumnal issue. Moss and weeds are routinely found to be major causes. Blocked gutters contribute significantly to instances of dampness. If water is running down the side of your house, or if a gutter appears to be sagging, then it’s likely blocked and needs to be cleaned.
You might think that leaves are the main troublemakers. While they can definitely clog things up during autumn, it’s not just an autumn thing. Moss and weeds love to get in on the action too. According to ComfyLiving, even small leaks can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water a year, and you certainly don’t want that! If water is running down the side of your house or if your gutter looks like it’s sagging, chances are it’s clogged up and in desperate need of cleaning.
3. Install Leak Detectors
Leak detectors are fancy electronic gadgets that are like your personal water detectives. They sniff out any signs of water or flooding and sound the alarm when things get wet.
These detectors come in all shapes and sizes, with many features. Some even have Wi-Fi, so they can chat with your other smart home gadgets. They’ll send alerts to your phone, keep tabs on the temperature, and integrate seamlessly into your smart home setup. Talk about high-tech! Since, according to The EPA, 10% of American households have leaks in their plumbing that can waste up to 90 gallons of water per day, you should definitely invest in one of these gadgets.
Water damage can be costly and a big nuisance, so make sure you do your best to prevent any damage. It may feel like a lot of extra work following these tips will ensure that you save a lot of money.
