Should you Maintain Your Major Appliances to Prevent Damage?

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Have you ever inspected your washer and dryer? If the answer is no, you should reconsider your home inspections. Both appliances can be the culprit of unnecessary home damage if left unchecked.  In a span of 4 years, washer and dryer fires resulted in approximately $238 million in damages, while worn water hoses lead to small leaks or breaks causing considerable home water damage. Routinely inspect your major appliances for wear with hoses and electrical connections, keeping ductwork clean and away from combustible materials.

Washer Maintenance:

• Inspect washer hose yearly for splits or cracks. Replace every 3-5 years.
• Keep appliance approximately 4 inches from the wall to allow for the hoses
• Check electrical plugs and outlets are in good working order
• Use the proper detergent and amount to avoid overflowing of the appliance

Dryer Maintenance:

• Dryer vents accumulate highly flammable lint and need to be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. If they are not maintained, they are a likely cause of home fires. Dryer fires accounted for 92% of appliance fires.
• Replace accordion-style ducts with a rigid metal duct to prevent lint buildup
• Annually clean dryer duct
• Wash chemical stained laundry several times before drying.

Routine maintenance is so easily overlooked in our busy lives.  We recommend taking all preventative measures to decrease the risk of fire and water damage, but in case your home experiences a disaster, we will be here to help with the restoration process 24/7/. Call SERVPRO of Bordentown/Pemberton at 609-894-8555, or, connect to www.SERVPRObordentownpemberton.com