How Can Water Damage Be Prevented In The Laundry Room?
Usually located in the laundry room and create heat and moisture is the washer and the dryer
. In order to help avoid water problems and mold, simple maintenance is required.
Below are simple guidelines which you can follow that will provide good tips and indications for potential water damage that can be caused by the washer, the dryer, hoses, filters, and the utility sink.
Be sure to perform these inspections every few month and be thorough while performing them
The Washer
Connected to both cold and hot water lines is the washer. Check them frequently. Fix a leak if you find it and start with the joints. Don't forget to check both ends of the water lines. Clean or replace the filters once in a while. Slowing the water flow into the washing machine is a blocked filter and this may cause some malfunctions. In areas with hard water, this problem is a lot worse. To inspect the shut off valve, you should look for drips into the washing machine while it is not in use. Replace the valve if you detect a leak.
b) Hoses and Filters
Just like in most appliances, often problems would start in the hose. Keeping at least 4 inches between the water connection and the back of the washer would be a good idea. You can prevent the hose from kinking and bursting if you allow this space. Check the hoses and replace them if old. You should also consider installing steel-braided hoses.
c) The Dryer
Connected to a ventilation hose is the dryer. You should carefully check it. You should connect the dryer ventilation hose to the outdoors. Make sure that the vent pipe is not clogged and search for lint behind and under the dryer. The exhaust should be made as short as possible for the dryer to vent efficiently.
4. Utility Sink
The utility sink is sometimes the source for water related problems. Try searching for links under the sink. A drip in the trap under the sink can be a sign for problems and should be repaired immediately. A partially blocked drain may be indicated by slow draining pipes. You should promptly repair a constantly dripping faucet. Replace sink seals if they are cracked or loose. If there are dark or stained walls around plumbing pipes, then this would indicate an internal leak that must be fixed before additional damage occurs.