Top 3 Sources of Water Damage in the Kitchen

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

While water damage can occur anywhere in the home, the kitchen is a particular hot spot.

While water damage can occur anywhere in the home, the kitchen is a particular hot spot. Think about it: kitchens are used daily to cook meals, wash dishes, and so much more. For the majority of the time that you are using the kitchen, most of your activities involve water in some capacity. Knowing where problem spots are in the kitchen can help you know where to keep an eye out for leaks and ultimately, protect your kitchen from the harmful effects of water damage.
Here are the top 3 sources of water damage in the kitchen:
The Dishwasher
Everyday, plates, cups, silverware, and many more kitchen items need to be washed in the dishwasher. This frequent usage increases the chances of a leak forming, whether it’s the result of the dishwasher door latch becoming bent, using the wrong type of detergent, or the dishwasher overfilling with water. Frequently check for water accumulating beneath the dishwasher in order to catch any leaks as soon as possible.
The Sink
Sinks are another appliance that are used all the time in the kitchen for hand washing, washing the dishes, or filling up a cup of water. Sink leaks can have a variety of causes, ranging from a drain or faucet leak to corroded sink parts. Be sure to inspect piping underneath the sink about every 6 months and keep an eye out for puddles of water and corroded sections.
The Refrigerator and Ice Maker
We all love a nice, cold glass of our favorite drink during the heat of the summer, which calls for ice cubes. The refrigerator and ice maker can be helpful in this regard, but they are also notorious for causing unwanted leaks and water damage. Leaking refrigerators and ice makers are not limited to just one cause. Instead, they can be the result of improper installation or worn-out parts. In order to catch a leak before irreparable damage is done, look for pools of water on the floor beneath the fridge and ice maker. For further water damage prevention, refrigerators and ice makers should receive regular maintenance and inspection.
Leaks in the kitchen causing water damage can result in major structural damage, as well as the growth of mold and mildew. These issues can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that SERVPRO is here to help. We are water damage specialists, experienced with all types of residential kitchen water damage. Call SERVPRO of Hunt Valley and Harford County today at (410) 229-0012 and click here to learn more about our water damage services.