Don’t Let Your Washing Machine Flood Your Nassau County/North Jax Home

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Checking the washing machine supply lines every six months, and replacing when needed, can save you a lot of money.

It is not unusual for our highly trained technicians here at SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Yulee/North Jax to be called on to respond to water damage or even floods caused by, yes, washing machines.

Helping our customers is our biggest goal, and so we want to share with you tips to help you avoid these expensive and time consuming flood losses.

First, know how to shut off your water if the washer is flooding:

• Clothes Washer:  Some houses have the valves clearly exposed above and behind the washer.  Turn both valves clockwise.  If you do not see these valves, slide the washer outward and you will likely see them.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that your washing machine is not going to cause problems:

1. Check the washing machine supply lines that are located behind the appliance every six months as part of your routine. Replace water lines when cracking or dripping occurs, or when a scale is forming around the connection to the water valve. The small investment of replacing water line can save you thousands of dollars and prevent major damage.
2. Make sure the drain for your washing machine is draining efficiently. Clogged drains and supply line breaks are the leading causes for washing machine floods.
3. Do not overload your washer! Though doing one large load of laundry is more convenient than doing multiple loads, overloading your washer causes the machine to vibrate and move which can knock loose connections and cause water to overflow.
4. Know where your main water shutoff valve is located! In the event your washing machine does overflow, shutting off the main water supply could save you a lot of time and money.
5. Do not run your washing machine if you are not awake, or not at home. If your washing machine floods, you want to be there to minimize the damage.

Insurance industry data shows the cost of washing machine floods/failures averages $5000 in an occupied home and $12,000 in an unoccupied home. Use these simple steps to help protect your investment from water damage loss. Call us if you need help at 904-729-2401.