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Washing machine hoses are one of the top offenders when it comes to water damage in your home. One ruptured hose can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damages. If you have the inexpensive rubber hoses installed on your machine, take time to evaluate their condition every 6 months to make sure they aren’t kinked or beginning to bubble. Look for any signs of dry rot. If you have any questions about their condition they should be replaced with high grade parts. Most plumbers agree these hoses should be replaced every 5 years.
It is important to be sure the water shut off valves are easily accessible. These valves should be manually shut off after the load is completed. If they’re not in a spot where they are easy to access they should be moved to a more convenient location.
Water alarms can be installed to alert you to any moisture that is building up around the base of the machine, but this is of little help if there is no one home to hear it.
There are several types of automatic valves that can minimize property damage:
- The first type uses a sensor near the base of the machine that detects water and shuts off an electrically operated valve. This type of valve is helpful but it doesn’t do anything until water has triggered it.
- Electrical voltage sensing valves turn on the water when electrical draw is detected from your washing machine, and off when the machine is off.
- Manual timing valves allow the water to stay on for a predetermined time then they will automatically shut off the water.
Take time to ensure your washer doesn’t ruin your most valuable possession. If you have any questions, please give us a call.