Protecting Your Scottsdale Home: Preventing Mold and Water Damage Caused by Household Appliances

One often-overlooked source of water damage is household appliances. Household appliances, such as washers and dryers, refrigerators and air conditioners, play an essential role in our day-to-day lives. Yet, the consistent wear and tear resulting from continuous use can lead to leaks and, even, mold growth. At PuroClean Restoration Specialists of Scottsdale, we understand the importance of routinely inspecting and maintaining your appliances to keep them free from mold and/or water damage. 

Checking Household Appliances: Simple Guidelines for Inspection

1. Washing Machines

Washing machines, those wonderful machines that clean our clothes and save us time, have hoses and connections that are prone to wear. This is especially true here in Arizona, where the harsh minerals in our water accelerate wear and tear.  Stay on top of wear and tear by conducting biannual checks for:

1. Worn-out hoses
2. Cracks or damage
3. Loose connections
4. Corrosion

2. Dishwashers

If you are like us, you use your dishwasher even more than your washing machine. And, if you are like us you don’t give another thought to routine inspections. Well these convenient kitchen gems have been known to cause water damage and even mold. To help prevent water damage or mold from your dishwasher, perform the following inspection twice a year:

1. Examine drain lines and supply lines for visible issues such as holes, cracks, dents and corrosion
2. Pull the dishwasher out and inspect for standing water, visible staining or wet cabinetry
3. Make sure all visible hose connections are tight

3. Refrigerators

Isn’t it refreshing to get an ice-cold glass of water directly from your refrigerator, especially during our hot Arizona summers? Well, another potential source of water leaks are refrigerators with water and dispensers and ice makers. Regularly check for:

1. Water puddles around the base of the refrigerator
2. Examine the hosing and connections to the water supply 
3. Inspect the drain pan underneath for signs water is pooling and not properly evaporating

4. Water Heaters

Water heaters are another appliance that are affected by our harsh climate and mineral rich water here in the Valley of the Sun. Water heaters will often start to leak before they fully break and let loose a flood of water.  Here are three things to pay attention to on a regular basis to catch issues before they leave you with water damage or mold:

1. Check for loose or corroded connections
2. Look for visible drips or mineral deposits implying a leak or drip
3. Rust or brown colored hot water is a sign that the heater is starting to break

5. Air Conditioning Units

None of us want to be left in the heat of the Arizona summer without cool air blowing in from our air conditioner. Even while they may feel like they are working properly, back ups in the drain line or drain pan can cause water damage. To be safe, visually inspect the dain line and drain pan.

Stop Mold Before It Starts: Prevent Leaks Early

By taking these steps and regularly inspecting your household appliances you can find leaks sooner and prevent potentially costly water damage or mold remediation. PuroClean Restoration Specialists Scottsdale stands as your trusted partner in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale and the Valley of the Sun to address appliance leaks and mold growth promptly.

Don’t Procrastinate, Act Today!If appliance leaks have escalated into mold growth or water damage, our professionals in Scottsdale are prepared to assist. Mold growth and water damage poses health risks and compromises the integrity of your home. Contact PuroClean Restoration Specialists Scottsdale at (480) 767-5588 for immediate support.