When you have appliances that use water, it is important to perform regular leak detection inspections. This will allow you to catch any problems before an emergency plumber has to be called. You should keep a close eye on notable leak-prone devices, as they are also among the most expensive. Below is a guide to two of the biggest culprits and how you can fix some of the more common causes of leaks.

Dishwashers

Even small dishwasher leaks should be repaired quickly to avoid causing structural damage to your home. You can likely trace these leaks to either the pump, door gasket, water inlet valve, dispensers and grommets, or the spray arm.

Wear and tear often causes these parts to fail. For example, detergents and age can cause the rubber gasket seal on the pump to dry out and crack. Also, when the soft rubber or vinyl door gasket around the front of the dishwasher gets too old or inflexible, water can start to seep out the door. The good news is that all of these parts can be easily replaced.

When the leak starts from the back of the machine, it might be attributed to something other than worn parts. You should inspect it for cracks broken hoses, but don’t forget to check that the inlet valve is secured in place. If leak detection revealed an issue at the bottom of the door where there are often no seals, it could be due to a blocked or broken spray arm inside the machine.

Washing Machines

Both front- and top-loading washing machines can develop leaks at numerous points. The most common spots include the hose and inlet connections, center post gaskets, outer tub area, pump, and air dome seal. Typically, you can tell which of these is the issue by noting where the puddle of water forms.

For instance, if your leak detection check took you to the back of the machine, it is likely due to the drain hose not being securely placed in the drainpipe. If you secure it and there is still a leak, you probably have a clog. Water could also pool under the machine, which most likely points to a hole in the water pump. You’ll need to replace this part before using the appliance again. If your puddle was caused by an overflow, chances are that you are using too much detergent or overloading the machine.

If you don’t feel comfortable making repairs after performing your periodic leak detection, call a professional to help you out. The contractor at Quality Plumbing has been providing fast and reliable service to the Honolulu, HI, area for over a decade. Call him today at (808) 384-0412 to schedule an appointment or for 24-hour emergency repairs. For more information about his services, you can also visit his website.