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Washing Machines
Washing machine failures are one of the top causes of homeowner insurance claims for water damage. The combination of constant water pressure on supply hoses and frequent use makes them high-risk.
Common Failure Points
- Supply hoses: Rubber hoses crack and burst, especially with age
- Fill valve: Stuck valves can cause overflow
- Drain hose: Loose connections or clogs cause backup
- Pump seals: Worn seals leak during cycles
- Door seals (front-load): Damaged gaskets leak
Prevention
- Replace rubber hoses with braided stainless steel
- Replace hoses every 5 years regardless of condition
- Inspect hoses for bulges, cracks, or corrosion monthly
- Turn off supply valves when machine not in use
- Install a drip pan under the machine
- Never leave home with the washer running
Dishwashers
Common Failure Points
- Door gasket: Worn or damaged seals allow water to escape
- Supply line: Connections under the sink can loosen or corrode
- Drain connection: Where drain hose meets disposal or drain line
- Spray arm: Cracks can misdirect water
- Float switch: If stuck, water can overflow
Prevention and Maintenance
- Inspect door gasket for cracks or food debris monthly
- Check under sink for signs of moisture regularly
- Run empty cleaning cycle monthly to clear residue
- Ensure drain hose has a high loop to prevent backflow
- Listen for unusual sounds during operation
- Address small leaks immediately before they worsen
Many dishwasher leaks occur slowly under the unit, damaging flooring before they are noticed. Consider placing a water leak detector under or behind the dishwasher.
Water Heaters
Water heaters hold 40-80 gallons of water under pressure. Tank failures can release enormous amounts of water in minutes. Most tanks last 8-12 years.
Warning Signs of Failure
- Rust-colored water from hot water taps
- Rumbling or popping sounds (sediment buildup)
- Water pooling around the base
- Moisture or corrosion on fittings
- Unit is over 10 years old
- Rusty anode rod (check annually)
Preventive Measures
- Install a drip pan: Metal pan with drain prevents floor damage from small leaks
- Annual maintenance: Flush tank to remove sediment, check anode rod
- Know the age: Plan replacement before catastrophic failure
- Check the pressure relief valve: Lift lever annually to ensure it operates
- Consider tankless: When replacing, tankless heaters eliminate tank failure risk
- Install leak detector: Early warning of problems
Refrigerators
Water Sources in Refrigerators
- Ice maker supply line: Small copper or plastic tube to water supply
- Water dispenser: Additional supply connection and internal lines
- Defrost drain: Can clog and overflow
- Condensation: Poor door seals cause excess condensation
Prevention
- Upgrade to braided stainless steel ice maker supply line
- Check supply line connection behind fridge annually
- Clean defrost drain annually (often accessible from inside)
- Check door gaskets seal properly
- Pull fridge out and inspect behind it annually
- Consider a leak detector behind the refrigerator
Refrigerator leaks often go unnoticed because they are behind the unit. Water can damage flooring and seep into walls before any visible signs appear. Regular inspection behind the unit catches problems early.
HVAC Systems
Air conditioning systems produce condensate that must drain properly. Clogged drain lines and failed condensate pumps are common causes of water damage, particularly in attics where AC air handlers are often located.
Common HVAC Water Issues
- Clogged condensate drain: Algae and debris block the line
- Failed condensate pump: If gravity drain is not possible
- Frozen evaporator coil: Ice melts and overwhelms drain
- Leaking drain pan: Rust or cracks in the pan
- Improper installation: Drain line not properly sloped
Prevention
- Drain line maintenance: Pour 1 cup vinegar down line every few months
- Secondary drain pan: Install under air handler in attic
- Float switch: Shuts off AC if pan fills with water
- Regular filter changes: Dirty filters cause coils to freeze
- Annual HVAC maintenance: Technician checks drain system
See our HVAC and duct mold guide for more information on preventing mold in HVAC systems.
Smart Leak Protection
Modern technology makes it possible to detect leaks immediately and even shut off water automatically before major damage occurs.