The rubber hoses that supply water to washing machines can burst when they get old, and a hose burst is one of the most common causes of household floods.

Every couple of months, check the hoses for cracks, blisters and bumps.  If you see signs of a problem, replace them immediately with stainless steel replacement hoses -- most cost less than $20 at your local home improvement store. 

Source:  www.RepairClinic.com

Reprinted from the Baltimore Home Improvement magazine