Prevent loss by proper maintenance

Most user manuals recommend that you open the drain valve and drain a small amount of water from the tank to remove sediment periodically, several times a year or more if you have hard water.

Even if you clean the lint from the screen every time you dry a load of clothes, it can still accumulate in the ducts or vent. The US Fire Administration reports that dryers are the source of approximately 2,900 fires annually.

Rubber washing machine hoses are a leading cause of water damage. They have an average lifespan of three years and can dry, crack and eventually break. Easy to install steel braided washing machine hoses are available at most hardware stores.

In addition to changing your alarm's batteries twice a year, you should verify that the system works properly and is not out of date. According to the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, you should replace smoke alarms every 10 years after the manufacture date.

Have a roofer check for lifting, curling or missing shingles. Remove moss buildup that can reduce your roof's life expectancy and remove debris from the gutters, so water can flow freely.