Contents
Toilets and Sinks
Air Conditioning
Refrigerators
Water Heater
Washing Machines
Dishwashers
Ice Makers and Water Filters
Atlanta homeowners rely on water-using appliances every day, from laundry rooms to kitchens and bathrooms. With the city’s humidity and frequent storms, even a small appliance leak can quickly turn into a bigger water damage issue if it goes unnoticed.
Understanding which appliances are most prone to issues can help homeowners take steps to prevent disasters before they happen. The EPA has created a comprehensive guide about mold and moisture in your home; we recommend checking it out.
Toilets and Sinks
Toilets and sinks are frequent culprits of water damage. Toilets can leak from faulty supply lines, worn flapper valves, or cracked tanks, sometimes going unnoticed until significant damage occurs. Checking the flapper valve, inspecting around the toilet base, and monitoring after flushing can help catch leaks early.
Sinks, both in kitchens and bathrooms, are also prone to leaks, from faucets, pipes underneath, or connections to dishwashers and garbage disposals. If left unaddressed, these leaks can damage cabinets, flooring, and even lead to mold. Regularly inspecting plumbing and ensuring connections are tight can help prevent costly water damage.
Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning units can cause water damage if the condensate drain line becomes clogged or damaged. This line removes excess moisture from the cooling process, and a blockage can make water back up and overflow, damaging nearby ceilings, walls, or floors.
To prevent problems, homeowners should regularly inspect and clear the drain line of debris. Installing a float switch or water alarm in the drip pan can also provide an early warning, helping to stop water damage before it becomes serious.
Refrigerators
Refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers are another common source of hidden water damage in Atlanta homes. The small water supply lines connected to these features can wear out, loosen, or leak over time, especially if they’re older or were not installed correctly. Since refrigerators are usually pushed against walls or tucked under cabinets, slow leaks can go unnoticed and damage flooring, walls, and nearby cabinetry.
Homeowners should check refrigerator water lines regularly for leaks or corrosion. Replacing water filters on schedule can also help maintain proper water flow and reduce the risk of leaks.
Water Heater
Water heaters provide essential hot water, but they can also cause serious water damage if neglected. Leaks can develop from the tank or plumbing connections, and since heaters are often in basements, garages, or utility closets, a small leak can go unnoticed and damage walls, floors, and belongings over time.
Regular maintenance is key: schedule inspections for signs of corrosion or leaks, and flush the tank annually to remove sediment that can contribute to corrosion, potential leaks and even mold.
Washing Machines
Washing machines are a common cause of water damage in Atlanta homes, often due to failing supply hoses. Rubber hoses can wear out over time, losing flexibility and eventually cracking, which can allow water to leak onto floors and into nearby walls.
To help prevent washing machine leaks, experts recommend replacing rubber hoses with steel-braided ones, which are far more durable. Regularly inspecting hoses and tightening connections can also go a long way in reducing the risk of unexpected water damage.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers can cause serious water damage in your home when they aren’t properly maintained. Leaks often develop around worn door seals or loose water supply connections. As seals break down over time, water can escape during a wash cycle and damage kitchen floors and surrounding cabinets.
Atlanta homeowners should regularly inspect dishwasher door seals for wear or debris that could prevent a tight seal. Checking water supply lines and fittings for leaks or looseness can also help reduce the risk of unexpected water damage.
Ice Makers and Water Filters
Standalone ice makers and water filters can also cause water damage if their supply lines are damaged or improperly connected. Leaks from these appliances may go unnoticed until they affect floors or nearby cabinetry.
Regular maintenance, like replacing filters on schedule and checking hoses for wear, can help Atlanta homeowners minimize the risk of unexpected water damage.
Protect Your Atlanta Home with Proactive Appliance Maintenance
Appliances make life easier, but they can also cause water damage if not properly maintained. Regularly inspect hoses, seals, and connections, replace worn parts, and clean or replace filters to prevent leaks. Professional inspections for water heaters and HVAC systems, plus water alarms near vulnerable appliances, can catch problems early.
Taking these steps helps protect your Atlanta home and keeps your family safe. At Barex, our water damage restoration service offers free inspections for homeowners and is available 24/7 to help minimize damage and restore your home quickly.