Did you know that in the US each year, homeowners file more water damage claims than almost any other type of loss? Water is second, only to wind and hail damage.
OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOME
1. Disconnect Hoses – This must be on your Fall “to do” checklist. If the hose freezes, it can create an ice block, that can then burst your pipes
and create damage to the walls, foundation, and flooring.
2. Clean Gutters and Point Downspouts Away from the Home – Pooling of water caused by overflow of clogged gutters or misdirected downspouts, can cause damage to your foundation.
3. Know Where Your Pipes and Sewer Lines are Located on Your Property – Planting trees and shrubs, while beautiful, can be hazardous to your pipes buried in your yard. Roots can wrap around
these pipes and break them or cause blockages.
INSIDE OF YOUR HOME
4. Locate Your Main Water Shutoff – plumbing experts say this is the most important plumbing feature in your home. The main water shutoff valve controls the water as it enters the home.Knowing where to turn your main water valve off will stop any water from coming into the home
therefore stopping a leak and minimizing any additional damage.
5. Maintain Your Appliances – Appliances are the most common cause of water damage in your home. Did you know the hoses for your washing machine and refrigerator have a life expectancy of
5 years? Replacing these hoses every 5 years will greatly reduce your chances of a hose becoming brittle and beginning to leak.
6. Investigate Any Leaks – Water should not be present in your home.If you see water on the floor, it came from somewhere. DON’T IGNORE IT.
7. Install a Water Detection Device – These devices contain sensors that detect moisture. The detection devices will alert you if it detects low moisture levels, therefore identifying slow leaks that may would go unnoticed until it is too late.
8. Check Your Water Pressure –A water pressure gauge purchased at any home improvement store can be attached to the outside faucet. Any reading above 100 psi is a signal that your water pressure is too high and may cause your pipes to burst and fail.
9. Monitor Your Water Bill – If your bill is much higher than the previous month, don’t leave the mystery unexplained. It could be a sign of a potentially major leak hidden in your home.
Source: Autohomeboat.com
