Prevent Water Damage from Dishwasher Leaks

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

A leak is inconvenient and even costly if you have to close down during cleanup.

Many restaurants in North Florida rely on dishwashers to keep things running smoothly and ensure a regular supply of clean crockery for their customers. A dishwasher is a handy appliance for any eatery looking to save some time and make things run better. However, just like any appliance, a dishwasher might break down and cause water damage to your premises. A leak is inconvenient and even costly if you have to close down during cleanup. SERVPRO of Columbia & Suwannee Counties recommends all restaurant owners take the following steps to take care of their automatic washers and reduce the risk of water damage from leaks.

Tell Staff Not To Overfill - It is tempting to put lots of crockery and cutlery in the tray to get more clean in each load. However, instruct your staff not to crowd the rack, as an over-filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads than trying to fit everything into one big load.

Do Regular Maintenance On Doors - Loose hinges, misaligned door latches, or broken seals, can all cause leaks. Sometimes the problem can be fixed by simply adjusting and tightening a few screws. You could use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, if it is not possible to right the door or seal, it is better to replace it.

Check The Tub And Hose - The tub and hose can both develop faults over time. Constant use might corrode the tub and make a hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly. Check all the components of the unit regularly and replace it at the first sign of wear and tear.

Use The Correct Detergent - Make sure every staff member knows which detergent is best. Always use a dishwashing detergent, and always follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dishwashing detergent or too much of the correct cleaning agent might cause suds or even a blockage.

In the event of a leak, SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified technicians are on hand to help with cleanup. We extract water from your premises and use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the surrounding area so you can resume business as soon as possible. For help with water damage remediation in Lake City, White Springs, Live Oak, Starke, Perry, Madison, Macclenny and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Columbia & Suwannee Counties @ (386) 754-0261 today.