Washing machines do a lot of our dirty work. While we appreciate the time and toil this appliance saves us, it can quickly become our worst enemy when a leak occurs and our laundry room becomes a flood zone. Damage from a water leak can be extensive, so quick action is necessary.
Shut-Off the Water
If you know where the leak may be coming from, it is important to stop the flow of water to that area. Locate and shut-off the water at its source until repairs can be made. If you are unable to stop the water, call a professional plumber immediately.
Once the water is off, assess the situation. If the water is cleaned up easily with no other apparent damage, then you can clean up, wait for drying, and call the necessary professionals for any needed repairs to broken materials.
Be Safe
Just like any emergency, it is always important to be safe. Only move to the shut-off valve if it is safely accessible. Do not walk-through water unless you know it is safe to do so. If there is damage near electrical lines, you may want to wait until a professional is called.
For safety purposes it may be necessary to shut off electricity or gas as well. Judge the situation and shut-off power and gas supply lines if you feel it is needed.
Make the Call
If you have standing water, dampness, or other water damage you will need to make the call to professional services to help with drying, cleaning, sanitizing, and mold prevention. Acting promptly in these situations is vital to avoid further damage.
Remember, many of the home’s porous materials will retain water, running the risk of mold growth, warping, or breakage. Mold can begin growing in as little as 24 hours.
Once a professional water restoration specialist is onsite, they will work through the process of water cleanup, including water removal, decontamination, drying or disposal of items and structures, and moving home items back into place. They will have the training, tools, and equipment necessary to work quickly and efficiently, saving you time and money.
Prevent Damage in the Future
Washing machine hoses should be checked regularly for any signs of damage or strain including cracks, bulges, or leaks. Replace hoses every 3-5 yars and use steel braided lines for added security. Keep at least 4-6 inches between the washer and the walls to prevent hoses from kinking.
Look for any signs of rust, moisture, or dripping near connection hoses, and make sure all connections are secured tightly.
If you notice your machine moving from its original spot, rocking, or drifting forward then that may mean extra stress on connections and hoses. Check the balance of your washer and adjust where needed.
If you are leaving for an extended time, turn off the water supply valve to your machine. It is also recommended that the main water supply for your home be turned off if you are leaving for a longer time, like on a trip.
Laundry room floods are a leading cause of water damage. Dealing with this kind of disaster takes quick action and the right tools. Failing to properly clean up and dry an area can mean added time, cost, and risk of more damage down the road. Making the right call is crucial. Here at Pro Response Water Restoration, we are ready to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will be there to support you through the whole process and get your home or business back up and running in pre-loss condition as quickly as possible.
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