The ability to take care of your dirty laundry with just the press of a few buttons any time you need is a modern amenity that most of us could not imagine living without. And it has got to be one of the big perks of living in the 21st century.
But what do you do when your washer springs a leak? Without warning, life suddenly gets a lot more difficult! If you see or hear water coming out of your machine, you need to call a 24 hour plumber straight away.
On a good note, there are several ways to avoid a laundry disaster. Here are a few common ways based on Level Plumbing’s technicians' experiences.
How Can You Avoid a Laundry Disaster?
Tip #1: Check the machine now and again during a cycle.
You do not have to sit there and watch it the whole time. Simply peek every 10 to 15 minutes to make sure all parts are properly functioning, and nothing has come loose or is leaking.
Tip #2: Avoid turning your machine on just before you leave the house.
The last thing you want is for a leak to happen just after you leave for work. To avoid water damage due to a washing machine leak, simply delay the start feature to start the machine before you get up in the morning so it has a chance to finish the cycle before you leave for the day.
Tip #3: Know what to do if you see water coming from out or under the machine.
The first thing to do is to turn it off. Water and electricity are a deadly combination, so if you can safely unplug the machine, do so. In case it is undoable, turn off the water at the mains, which will stop things from getting worse, and call your emergency plumber to come and evaluate.
If you can unplug the machine safely, you can start cleaning up straight away while you wait for the plumber to arrive. The more water you can get up quickly, the less damage to your home.
Tip #4: Install your washer near the floor waste and keep the floor waste clear.
If you have some flexibility in the placement of your washing machine, try to place it close to your laundry floor waste. This way, if disaster does strike, the water is quickly able to flow down the drain, and damage can potentially be minimised.
It is also important to keep this floor waste clear. Do not cover it with mats or allow gunk to build up. Small maintenance could save you from daily cleanup.
Tip #5: Regularly check hoses for signs of damage and deterioration
Over time, hoses deteriorate. As such, it is a good idea to give them a regular inspection so you can spot small issues before they become serious.
Mice also love to chew through rubber and plastic hoses and can do quite a bit of damage in a short time. So, make it a part of your weekly checklist to make sure all your hoses are in good condition.
Tip #6: Ensure your drain hose is secure at the sink end and nothing is blocking drainage
If you regularly use your laundry sink for other things, it is easy for the drain hose to get dislodged. So, make sure that it is secure before turning on your machine. If your drain hose discharges directly into the sink, make sure that it is also empty.
Level Plumbing Canberra offers a 24-hour emergency plumbing service. Our team is available to help you whenever you need us. Reach out to us now and call (02) 6188 6088.
