Tips to Prevent Water Damage to Home

Follow these tips to stay one step ahead of water damage.

Water damage accounts for about 25% of property insurance claims. In fact, in 2012 insurance
companies data indicate that water is ten times more likely to cause damage to your home than fires. We all know about the damage that water heaters can cause when they fail, that is why they are best installed on the outside of your home.  But other appliances can be just as destructive like air conditioner drains, washing machines, dish washers and plumbing.

Unfortunately you may not that trouble is brewing until it is too late! Take some time to regularly check your household appliances.

Here are simple steps to keep your home happy and dry:

• Know where your main water shut off is in case of an emergency
• If you are going to be away for awhile, shut off the water supply, you do not want to come home to a flood
• Have your air conditioning system inspected regularly, particularly the drain lines. Clean out clogs or replace if cracked
• Inspect water heaters, showers, tubs, toilets, sinks, dish washer and washing machine twice a year.
•  A good time to check your plumbing is with time change, spring forward, fall backward, check batteries in smoke alarms and check water lines
• When possible, install water heaters in an area with floor drains to minimize damage if leaks should occur
• Check caulking around showers, tubs, sinks and toilet base. Water can get into cracks and cause more damage than you want to think about
• If your refrigerator has an ice machine or water dispenser, who's doesn't, be sure to check the water line there too. It should made of braided cooper to prevent corrosion and cracking
• Checks water pipes for cracks and leaks. Have any leaks or cracks repaired ASAP. Water looks refreshing and tastes good but you won't believe the damage it can do if left untreated

Ben Franklin said "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". Catching water leaks early will definitely save you pounds of headaches later.