Most Common Causes of Indoor Flooding

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

The fact that your property is filled with pipes bringing water in and out of the building might not be something you think much about. Whether its the sink you wash your hands in, the washing machine that cleans your clothes or the dishwasher cleaning your dishes, you need a constant flow of water to keep your home running smoothly. But, that much water can also mean a decent chance of indoor flooding.

Indoor flooding is one of the leading causes of water damage and can require basic plumbing repairs and water damage restoration services. To help you combat floods when they strike, here are the most common causes of indoor flooding.

Leaky or broken pipes

The most obvious cause is leaky or broke water pipes. Pipes can burst thanks to changes in water pressure or faulty setup, regardless of the cause pipe problems often cause flooding.

A broken pipe can flood your home in a matter of minutes, filling your property with water that will require water damage repairs and even carpet cleaning services depending on where the burst occurs. Meanwhile a leaky pipe is a warning sign of problems to come and will require a plumber to fix. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for mold, requiring the likes of SERVPRO of North Calhoun's mold remediation to combat.

Leaking Water Heaters

A standard water heater is designed to constantly fill itself, providing you with warm water while showering or washing dishes. Having a leak in your water heater can cause a major disaster.

Even a small leak can cause extreme flooding due to its endless flow of water. Inspecting your water heater and keeping up with its maintenance helps to prevent leaks.

Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines

Water needs to be able to flow to and from your house with ease. That flow can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Clogs that seem benign, allowing a slow drain, may seem to merely be an inconvenience. But, those clogs can become much worse, with the potential to cause your sinks, toilets and showers to overflow with water. This can result in big floods that cause even bigger damage. Make sure to contact a plumber if you notice a minor clog, this way you can keep your problem from getting worse.

Faulty Washing Machine Hose

Washing machines are extremely convenient, allowing you to free up your schedule by cleaning clothes with ease. But, like all appliances that use water, a malfunctioning washing machine can cause flooding.

Faulty washing machine hoses are the most common problem. A leak in your intake hose-the hose that brings water to the machine- can worsen over time and cause flooding in your home. There are steps you can take to keep your washing machine safe, like installing a washing machine valve shut off kit, but there will always be a chance of your machine causing a flood.

Floods in your home or business can't be controlled. Thankfully, if you can recognize the common causes of indoor flooding, you'll be prepared to prevent floods before they happen and be able to handle them if they do.

If you find yourself in need of water damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, available 24-hours a day, at 269-963-3033