Water has a tremendous amount of energy that can be both constructive and destructive. Water created the grand canyon, carving out majestic waterways, it sustains life, it provides countless hours of enjoyment to almost everyone, yet there is still a devastating effect that water, or lack of ti, has on society both in monetary loses and the loss of life. The droughts in Texas or the Japanese tsunami this year are just the most recent examples of how water can affect our lives. The subject that we’ll talk about this week isn’t as traumatic, but it sure can make a mess and cause a tremendous amount of damage.Water in the home when it’s not in the right place can cause a great deal of problems.
Damage from water can originate from air conditioning condensate lines that are backed up or improperly installed, aging or faulty piping, hot water heaters or any other appliances that use water. Water in the form of moisture can also cause damage, creating conditions that are prime for micro-organisms to grow, leaving your home a fussy mess. A damaged roof can make it seem like it’s raining more inside your house then it is outside. So, how do you minimize problems associated with damage resulting from water?
There is no surefire way to prevent every problem, but there are ways to stack the deck in your favor. Preventative maintenance on your air conditioning will help reduce the chance that your condensate line will back up and the system will function properly for dehumidification during your absence. Having your hot water checked by a state certified plumber every couple of years will decrease the likelihood that you’ll discover a surprise when you return. Try to avoid running your washing machine or dishwasher when you’re going to be leaving or going to sleep. There is a better chance that a problem will be discovered if you’re home and alert. Have your roof checked out if it’s been more then ten years since anything has been done to it.
I know that none of these services are free, but the possible result of complacency and neglect can be cost you way more in the long run. There is no subject, when it comes to your home, that I can emphasize more than performing preventative maintenance. One final note, it’s a good practice to turn your main water line coming in your home before leaving – even if just for a couple of days. A great deal of damage can occur in just a short amount of time! Also, don’t forget to turn your hot water heater’s breaker off when you turn the water off, otherwise you can damage it.
As always, thanks for reading,
Bryan
Bryan Hayes, along with his brother Todd, is a co-owner of a Sanibel Air Conditioning company on Sanibel, FL. They also own and operate an island-based electrical service company Sanctuary Island Electric, Inc. Bryan can be reached at Bryan@Sanibelair.com
