30 Dec Notable Places You’ll Find Water Damage Outside of the Bathroom and Kitchen
The most likely places to expect water damage are bathrooms and kitchens. Leakages in HVAC systems, water heaters and roofs are all potential sources of flooding and property damage.
Apart from the damage that a water leak can cause to your Long Beach, CA property, it can also lead to higher water bills. The nearly 180 gallons of water that a leak releases each week can result in increased water bills.
Water Leaks In HVAC Systems
Many homeowners become concerned when water is leaking from their AC units. Although all AC units lose some condensation, there are certain conditions that can cause them to leak more and lead to water damage.
Air conditioning leaks can be caused by the following:
- An dirty filter which restricts airflow to the air handler and causes a frozen coil. When the evaporator coil is thawed, it releases more water than your condensate can handle.
- The evaporator coil can also freeze if it has an insufficient amount of refrigerant. Ice on your indoor equipment or the line connecting your outdoor unit to your house is a sure sign that your AC unit has run out of refrigerant. Refrigerant leaks should be repaired by a licensed HVAC contractor.
- The drip pan could leak if it is disconnected from the condensate drain.
- A broken condensate pumps can cause the drip pan’s overflow, much like a PVC pipe that is clogged.
Your AC system’s normal water production isn’t enough to cause damage. An HVAC leak can cause many types of water damages.
- Mold and mildew- The warm air and moistness around your AC units create the ideal environment for mold growth. You could have a serious mold problem depending on where the leak is located. This can happen within 24 to 48 hours.
- Sheetrock damage – Sheetrock is fragile and doesn’t stand up to water. In a very short time, water from an AC leak could cause sheetrock damage.
- Electrical problems – A leaking AC can cause an electrical short and possibly damage the whole system. Before you attempt to repair your AC, contact an electrician if you suspect that this has occurred.
Water Damage from Pipe Leaks
Even the smallest pipe leak can cause water damage. Water is a powerful force. Even a small leak can cause flooding or structural damage that could cost thousands of dollars.
Here are some examples of severe water damage caused by pipe leaks:
- A pipe that bursts or leaks during the night can cause havoc in your home.
- Wall leaks can be hidden and cause the most severe damage. Wall leakages can go undetected for several months. The leak can eventually saturate insulation and wood, leading to structural damage.
- Water from the piping can seep into your foundation, around doors and windows, and even into your foundation. Another concern is landscaping. misdirected sprinklers can cause foundation and crawlspace water damage.
Homeowners should always be on the lookout for signs of water damage in their homes due to the potential damage that a pipe leak can cause. Don’t ignore a leak – it could be costly!
Is Your Water Heater Flooding Your Home?
A water heater leaking can cause serious damage. Most water heaters are reliable for many years. They are also notorious for leaking at unexpected times, which can lead to a large flood.
The average life expectancy of a water heater is approximately ten years. To avoid expensive repairs or water damage, you should inspect your water heater regularly for signs of leakage. You might consider replacing your water heater if it leaks. Installing a new unit is usually more expensive than the cost of repairing or replacing flood-damaged flooring, furniture, and walls.
The water heater may initially seem to work perfectly. It will likely become a serious danger if it is not repaired quickly enough. We have found that replacing damaged equipment due to flooding is usually less costly and safer than replacing it.
WARNING The dangerous combination of electricity and water is . There is a greater chance of getting an electric shock from the charged water if your water heater is submerged in water or is located near electrical appliances or sockets. It is best to contact a professional in these situations.
Roof Leaks: The Dangerous Side Effects
Do not be deceived. A small roof leak can cause significant water damage to your home, including structural damage, and mold infestation.
Untreated wood is not able to withstand constant water pressure and will eventually deteriorate. This can cause serious damage to your home’s framing and attic floor, rafters and ceiling joists.
Your attic may not have a floor. If it does not, water can drop into insulation. It will eventually reach lower ceilings and down the walls, where it can cause darkening, bowing and collapse. Any water that gets down the wall could cause damage to your foundation.
The best way to address flooding issues is to contact a Long Beach Water Damage Restoration Company. They have the right tools and qualified technicians to handle the problem.