When washing machines malfunction, they usually create not only a flooded area surrounding the washing machine, but also a flooded house. In fact, most household floods and water damage are caused by plumbing or appliance failure. The damage for these disasters can up to hundreds and even tens of thousands of dollars.

When washing machines malfunction, they usually create not only a flooded area surrounding the washing machine, but also a flooded house

When washing machines malfunction, they usually create not only a flooded area surrounding the washing machine, but also a flooded house

Repeatedly, washing machine floods come without warning. Compounding washing machine flooding issues is the fact that many home insurance policies won’t cover damage that is caused by faulty pipes or drains or inadequate air supply to the appliance. Thus, already damaged washers are not covered. Also, washers damaged by weather, pets or improper installation are not covered.

By its very working nature, a malfunctioning washing machine is a home flooding disaster waiting to happen. Conventional washers use more than 130 litres of water per load. Modern Energy Star-rated models use 40 to 75 litres. Even a minor flooding is a huge mess to clean up and is a significant amount of water loss.

Washing machine floods are major problems lying in wait. They can originate from numerous sources beneath and around the base of the machine. Water can even flood from the back of washers to the front. When a washing machine pipe bursts, so does the ceiling on the potential for quick, devastating financial damage.

The key to minimising the damage of a home washing machine water damage is enacting a quick response plan. Once you see water pooling around your washer, cut off the electrical power supply to the washer at the circuit breaker or fuse box. If the cord is exposed to standing water, this could create the potential for electric shock. After cutting the power to the washer, mop or wipe up the floodwater as quickly as possible.

Remove all wet or waterlogged laundry with rubber gloves. Place all wet items in a bucket and wring them out over a sink in the laundry room or kitchen. This can be an exhausting process, but it will remove the standing water from the washer, which helps alleviate drainage problems.

Most household floods and water damage are caused by plumbing or washing machine appliance failure

Most household floods and water damage are caused by plumbing or washing machine appliance failure

Next, investigate the extent of the flooding. Carefully pull the washer away from the back wall to gain access to the washer’s hoses. Check for dripping or leaking water from the hose connections as well as puddles on the floor. Tighten the connection for hot water and cold water supply hoses than run from the back of the washer to the valve on the laundry room wall. Also ensure that single drain hoses are secure on both ends.

The machine should be able to normally supply and pump the water out of the drum or tub with the hose secure. Do not add any dirty laundry or detergent to the machine. Rather, test a regular wash or rinse-only cycle and monitor the machine closely for any flooding until the cycle is complete. If all goes well, precede washing clothes as usual. If there are any issues, consult a professional immediately.

A home washing machine flooding disaster is a nightmare no homeowner wants to open their laundry room door to, but smart preventive measures and a quick response plan can ensure this disaster doesn’t leave you, your family and your home adrift in costly water.

 

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