How to Prevent Water Damage: Everyday Tips and DIY Tricks

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can be unpredictable. However, there are steps you can take to help prevent it. In fact, it can be quite easy to make sure your plumbing and HVAC systems are in good working order. 

Here at SERVPRO of Hackensack/Little Ferry, we’re proud to be leaders in cleaning and restoration services here in this community. Our team of advanced technicians has all the specialized knowledge, training, and equipment necessary to handle any size disaster.  But rather than cleanup after a disaster, we’d like to help you prevent major damage from occurring in the first place.  

Here are some ways you can prevent water damage on a day-today basis, both when you’re at home and traveling away for an extended period:

Everyday Water Damage Prevention Tips

If you’re careful about what goes down your drains, you can help prevent cracks and damage to your pipes that might otherwise lead to leaks and water problems.

• Be careful what goes down your toilet. It’s a good idea to flush only human waste and toilet paper. Note: even “flushable” wipes can clog toilet drains, especially in bulk.
• Make sure not to pour grease or coffee grounds down drains as these can clog pipes and sewer lines.
• If you have a drain clog, try using a drain snake rather than a chemical cleaner as a snake is typically both more effective and less hazardous.

DIY Water Damage Preventative Maintenance

Here are some easy DIY steps you can take to inspect and maintain your water supply.  If you do notice signs of wear and tear or incorrect operations, be sure to call professional services soon before a small problem turns into a major home disaster.

• Clean your gutters regularly and be sure to check them after heavy storms to make sure water is flowing properly.
• Once a year, make sure to visually inspect your plumbing - including any toilets, sinks, tubs, washing machines, or dishwashers – and look for any signs of damage or leaking.
• Flush your sinks with baking soda and vinegar to help prevent clogs. You can use lemon juice to eliminate any odors.
• Consider investing in a sump pump in case of flooding and be sure to check it regularly to make sure it is in good working order.
• Pay attention to your water bill each month. An unexpected increase may indicate that water is leaking somewhere.

Water Damage Prevention When Traveling

If you’ll be traveling away on vacation, here are steps you can take before you leave to help prevent any water problems while you’re away.

• Adjust your HVAC settings to a lower setting while your away to prevent pipes from freezing during cold weather.
• Consider turning off your water supply and draining your pipes.
• Ask a neighbor to check on your house every few days to make sure there aren’t any developing problems.

While it’s not always possible to prevent water damage, these tips can help minimize your chances of having to deal with a major water-related emergency. And if something should happen, know that SERVPRO of Hackensack/Little Ferry is available 24/7 to help deal with any size water damage problem, large or small.