Safety Handouts: Homeowner Tools For Effective Water Damage Prevention

There are water leak detection systems that you can use in preventing water damage and that can help prevent a leak in your home before it turns into a flood. Those systems are :
Water Alarms – These Systems are typically battery-operated and could stand-alone units. You can afford them because they are inexpensive and are easy to install that could sense water. You need a moisture sensor. Your moisture sensor is located on the device and will activate an audible alarm when it senses moisture or moisture brought by water damage. Water alarms can be placed on your floor or they may be wall mounted on your wall. The water alarm should be located in your high-risk areas such as under your sinks and near your appliances and your equipment that use water to detect water damage.
Water alarms range in cost from $8 to $45. This type of water alarm device is only beneficial if you are inside your home, hear the alarm, and take action to stop the leaking water.
Individual Appliance System – There are systems that are installed on a specific appliance and will automatically shut off your water supply in the event of a leak caused by water. You may be able to install this kind of system without any special tools. In some cases, a qualified plumber you will be needed. Individual appliance systems range in cost from $50 to $150.
Whole House Systems – These systems feature a shut-off valve that is installed on your main water supply pipe. When a leak is detected the system will automatically shut off your entire water supply. There are some models that can be integrated with your local or central station security system. If you travel often, this type of system could offer you an additional peace-of-mind while you are away from home because it works automatically to prevent water damage. A whole-house system typically takes between four and six hours to install and cost between $500 and $1,500 depending on labor rates and size.
Other safety tips can help you minimize a loss brought on by water damage. If you experience a loss consider the following :
* – Shut off your water source if possible
* – Remove as much water as possible as you can by mopping and blotting the saturated area
* – Wipe your furniture to remove excess water
* – Place aluminum foil between your furniture legs and the wet carpet
* – Prop up the wet furniture cushions for even drying
* – Lift window drapes off the floor. Loop them through a coat hanger and hang on a curtain rod, if possible
* – Remove all rugs from the wet area
* Turn on the air conditioner if water damage occurs in summer
* Move valuable paintings, art objects, and photos to a safe and dry place
* Remove damp books from shelves and lay them out to dry
* Open closet doors, furniture drawers, and luggage to aid in drying
* Remove any of your wet fabrics and dry them immediately
* Hang your furs and leather goods to dry separately at your room temperature

Source: http://www.brunkco.com/