Hot Water Heater
A hot water heater will generally last around 10 years, but premature leaks are not uncommon from its pipes and seals. Making sure there is no diminished performance, standing water or other signs of water damage is a task that should be done with regularity to ensure damage does not occur.

Refrigerator
Refrigerators are some of the most rarely moved appliances, meaning water damage can lurk under and behind them long enough to become severe before it is even noticed. As part of your annual home maintenance, move the refrigerator away from the wall to look for any dark or soft spots with the wood, and test the water dispenser to watch for any drips.

Dishwasher
While refrigerators can cause issues, dishwashers pose an even higher risk and are moved about as infrequently. Dishwashers require gallons of water when they run and are not always covered by standard insurance policies. Because their leaks can be costlier and more severe, checking them as often or more than you check the fridge is advised.

Washing Machine
Washing machine hoses are some of the most common sources of leaks. Because they are notorious for this, it is recommended that they are inspected at least once a month by homeowners so you can be sure no issues have arisen. In addition to these regular checks, they should be fully replaced every five years in order to prevent hidden deterioration.

Air Conditioner
An air conditioning unit contains a drain that handles any accumulated condensation that is created when your unit is working. However, issues to this system can create hidden water damage quickly, as the condensation will pool inside the unit and can cause damage to surrounding structures. Your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is the best defense against this—stick to it to be made aware of any issues before they start to cause serious problems.

If your home has been impacted by water damage or you’d like to put a plan in place in case it happens to you, contact us to learn how we can help.