High-Tech Solutions Lower Premiums

(NewsUSA) - Water damage can prove devastating. Ruptured washing machine hoses, leaking water heaters, leaky pipes and failed plumbing systems can make entire rooms or basements flood. Floods can stain ceilings and walls, warp wooden floors, destroy expensive electronics and ruin personal items.

Such water damage causes many homeowners to file insurance claims. In the U.S., only home fires cause more damage.

Small water leaks can also create moist areas -; perfect places for mold, one of the major sources of low indoor air quality, to grow.

In allergic or asthmatic people, indoor mold can cause rashes or asthma attacks. Even people without allergies develop respiratory, skin and eye irritation when exposed to mold.

Mold can damage home ventilation systems, walls and carpets, not to mention sentimental items like old wedding clothes or fine art. Carpets containing mold must be replaced, and moldy wall installation requires removal. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average homeowner's claim is $3,000 to $4,000 dollars.

For water damage combined with mold, homeowners typically claim $15,000 to $30,000.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is nearly impossible to remove. Homeowners or contractors can scrub off visible mold from walls and replace rugs, but the only way to reduce mold is to reduce a home's moisture content.

The best way to handle mold? Prevent the water leaks and damage from encouraging mold growth.

Insurance companies now give discounts to homeowners who install high-tech devices to limit water damage. The FloLogic System, an automatic water shut-off system, acts like a circuit breaker for water systems.

From the water main, the FloLogic monitors a home's water flow. If the system detects a change in pressure resulting from a pinhole leak, flooding appliance or running faucet, the FloLogic sounds an alarm and shuts off the water before flood and mold damage can occur.

Insurance companies recognize that early detection limits damage and reduces claims, and many offer reduced rates to homeowners who install the FloLogic system.

For homeowners, using high-tech devices to prevent water damage can become a double boon -; they can protect their valuables and pay less money to insure their homes. To learn more, visit www.flologic.com.

"Article By: NewsUSA"