Over the past couple of weeks I have had two clients both with water damage to expensive audio/video equipment due to water. In one case the customer's RO water system in the kitchen burst filling not only the main floor with water but also creating a veritable swimming pool in the basement where the home theater was located. You can imagine the damage this caused. In the second case a washing machine malfunction caused a water leak close to the family room area where all the audio/video equipment was located. In both cases this water damage is causing severe inconveniences and headaches for the homeowners.
So what can you do to prevent his type of water damage? Here are a few suggestions.
- Periodically check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, behind the washing machine, etc. A leak may indicate a deteriorating pipe or hose.
- Check hoses regularly for bulging, cracking, and fraying. These hoses are found in all of the places mentioned above.
- If you have a basement you have a sump pump. Have it inspected by a plumbing professional to make sure it is working properly.
- Check your water heater. If you see rust around the base of the water heater or in the pan below it you may have a leak.
- Install water sensors in key areas such as under sinks, behind toilets, in the laundry room, etc. These water sensors can be tied to your security system and will alert to a water leak before real damage can occur. In most cases an alert can be sent to your mobile device such as your iPhone, Blackberry, or Droid.
Any time or money you spend upfront will be well worth it in the long run. In both cases sited above our clients are having to endure some real trials in order to get their homes back in order. While we are there to help them do that we would rather help them, and you, prevent the damage in the first place.
Thanks,
Jason C. Evans
CEO
Components Electronic Systems, LLC