Water damage is a common but significant problem that can affect any home or business. It can result in costly repairs and pose health hazards if not addressed promptly. For example, water damage can cause significant structural damage, mold growth, and loss of valued possessions.
The most common causes of water damage include:
- Pipe leaks and bursts
- Clogged or blocked drains and gutters
- Faulty appliances
- Plumbing backup and clogs
- Air conditioning unit condensation
- Leaking water heaters
- Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
Each of the varying types of water damage can have its own unique set of consequences and typically require different preventative measures. But if you’re past the point of taking preventative measures, consider water mitigation treatment from a professional.
Pipe Leaks & Bursts
Pipe leaks and bursts can result in costly repairs and damage all over your property, including your floors, ceilings, and walls. It’s important to have your pipes regularly inspected by a professional to prevent costly pipe leaks and burst repairs. So if you happen to notice any signs of water damage from a damaged pipe, such as dampness or discoloration, it’s best to call a professional for repair work immediately.
Pipe leaks and bursts are common occurrences that can cause costly damage and repairs to various areas all around your property, like your walls, ceilings, and floors. They typically occur due to old or corroded pipes, drastic changes in temperature, or high water pressure.
Drastic changes in temperatures include changes in the season when it can be below freezing in the morning and 60 degrees and sunny by lunch.
Clogged/Blocked Drains & Gutters
Clogged or blocked drains and gutters can be easy to miss but can cause significant water damage if left unattended. This is because leaves, dirt, and debris accumulate, preventing water from escaping down the drain. The buildup can cause water to back up and overflow. The excess water can easily leak into the cracks in your walls, windows, and even foundation.
It’s of utmost importance that you clean out your drains and gutters regularly and after a natural event like a heavy storm.
If you have clogged or blocked drains, you use a plunger or a plumbing snake to remove the blockage. You can also use a pressure washer to blast the debris away. However, if it’s severe, it’s best to contact a professional to remove the blockage and prevent further damage safely.
Faulty Appliances
Faulty appliances can cause water damage due to poor hose connections that allow water to leak and pool onto the floor. If this happens to you, be sure to inspect the appliance at fault and immediately place the worn or damaged hose. Also, ensure that the appliance is level to prevent shifting and future damage to any connections.
Some common culprits include refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines. Like drains and gutters, it’s important to inspect and maintain your appliances regularly to prevent costly damages from leaking water.
Double-check the hoses and other connections for signs of wear and tear, replacing them immediately if needed.
Plumbing Back-Ups & Clogs
Plumbing back-ups and clogs can pose a health hazard and cause significant water damage to your property. These typically occur due to the buildup of hair and solid wastes that prevent plumbing systems from working efficiently. It’s important to avoid flushing non-degradable items down the toilet and to dispose of solid waste and hair properly.
Plumbing back-ups and clogs not only cause significant water damage but also pose health hazards. This type of water damage typically occurs when hair and other solid wastes build up in your plumbing, preventing water from flowing efficiently.
You can avoid plumbing back-ups and clogs by only flushing non-degradable items down the toilet and by using a drain strainer to catch hair and other solid wastes.
Condensation from Air Conditioners
If you live in a warmer climate, you know how necessary AC is, especially in the summer and likely have one running constantly. Condensation from air conditioning units can accumulate and leak into your home. This occurs when water moves through the unit and the drainage system become faulty, leading to water build-up.
As air passes through the unit, moisture is extracted from the air and drained away. And if the drainage system becomes faulty, it can cause the water condensation to accumulate and eventually leak.
Avoid water damage from an air conditioner by having your AC unit regularly serviced. This includes ensuring it’s functioning correctly and cleaning the draining system. Additionally, you can place a pan under the unit to catch any excess water and prevent it from leaking onto your floor.
Leaking Water Heater
A water heater typically leaks due to too much tank pressure, age, and wear and tear. These four factors alone can cause tanks to develop leaks and significant water damage. Typically leaking water heaters cause damage over time. Wear and tear can cause the heater to spring a leak and potentially flood the area it’s housed.
Prevent this type of water damage by having a professional inspect and maintain it regularly. Inspections include checking the tank pressure and ensuring it’s at an adequate level and that it’s not too high.
Malfunctioning Sprinkler System
Contrary to popular belief, sprinkler systems don’t require the presence of smoke or fire to set off. There have been several incidents where sprinkler systems were set off due to a malfunction in the sensors.
Malfunctioning sprinkler systems also tend to be a common culprit of water damage. This type of damage occurs when the system is set off, even without the presence of smoke or fire.
Prevent your sprinkler system from flooding your home by having it maintained and inspected regularly by a professional. These professionals will typically check the sensors and ensure they’re functioning how they should.
Get a Professional to Help with Water Damage
Prevent accidental flooding by having a professional inspect and maintain your sprinkler system and ensure the sensors are functioning correctly. Your team at Emergency Flood Team services the Gilbert, AZ as well as Cottonwood, AZ areas. Give us a call if you have an emergency you need fixed.
