Washing machines are one of the most common sources of water damage in the home, and the damage can be costly. After paying the deductible, the national average claim for water damage caused by washing machines is over $5000.00 at least.
Since each washing machine has multiple ways of causing water damage, many homeowners do not fully understand the risks, prevention options, or cleanup options. Knowing just a little about how your washing machine can cause water damage can help you save thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches.
Supply Hose Leaks Cause Most Washing Machine Water Damage. More than half of washing machine failures are due to a faulty hose system, including;
Pinching the hose while installing or replacing a washing machine, causing a hairline break
A poor connection to either the washing machine or wall
The hose’s own aging, which can lead to brittleness
Washing machine intake hoses are high-flow lines and can output over 600 gallons of water in an hour. This issue can be prevented with a couple of simple steps.
If your washing machine’s supply hose is more than 5 years old or isn’t steel braided, replace them as soon as possible. It may sound a little excessive until you realize that a new pair of hoses can cost under $30 and can easily be installed without a plumber.
The good news is that intake line water damage is category 1, which means it contains relatively few biological contaminants.
Internal Leaks are Also a Common Cause of Washing Machine Water Damage
A washing machine doesn’t have to be old, poorly installed, or poorly built to cause internal leakage. Simply overloading your washing machine on a regular basis can be all it takes to cause cracks and loosen valves, bushings, and gaskets. It may take a little more time and water to run more, smaller loads, but it’s worth it to keep your washing machine from shaking itself apart.
When Does Your Washing Machine Leak?
If the leak is constant, you almost certainly have a supply hose issue. If the leak happens during the wash cycle but before the spin cycle, it’s most likely an internal leak. If you see water on the floor during the spin cycle, or immediately after the machine shuts off, then it’s most likely a drainage issue.
Preventing Water Damage from your Washing Machine. The most effective ways of preventing damage from your washing machine are to:
Replace the washing machine intake hose every 5 years
Check your sewer line after a storm, before running your washing machine
Don’t overload your washing machine
Have your machine professionally installed to avoid water line pinches and drainage issues
Shut off the intake valve behind your machine at the first sign of trouble
If you can’t access the intake valve, know how to shut off your home’s water main
Is Washing Machine Water Damage Covered by Insurance?
The good news is that your average homeowner’s insurance policy will absolutely cover water damage caused by your washing machine. The bad news is that the damage to your appliance will most likely not be covered, which is why it’s best to purchase a washing machine from a manufacturer with a long parts and labor warranty. While shopping around, keep in mind that almost 80% of all washing machine-related water damage claims involved units less than 11 years old.
Can 5 Star Cleaning Restoration Repair Water Damage Caused by my Washing Machine?
Absolutely. Our restoration team can cover any kind of water damage, including all categories 1, 2, and 3 water damage from washing machines. We can even help
For any water damage concerns or questions, or in case of 24/7 water damage restoration needs, please do not hesitate to contact our 24/7 emergency hotlines.
24/7 Emergency line: 416-315-7562
5stargreencleaning@gmail.com
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Source by: 5 Star Cleaning Team
5 Star Cleaning crew at water damage restoration in basement due to broken laundry machine