Dangers of Flexible Hoses

If you're not a plumbing expert, you might not be familiar with flexi hoses and what they are used for, let alone their potential hidden dangers. So let's find out a little bit about flexi hoses! A Flexi hose, short for flexible hose, is a type of plumbing or water transport component that is designed to be flexible and adaptable. Flexible hoses or braided stainless steel water connectors have become very popular within the Australian market replacing copper pipes, and can be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and toilets. They are made from materials like rubber, stainless steel, or other flexible materials and are often reinforced with braided layers to provide strength and durability. Plumbers generally love working with flexi hoses due to their ease of installation, flexibility, and adaptability to different plumbing configurations. However, it's essential to choose high-quality hoses and replace them periodically to prevent leaks or ruptures, which can lead to water damage and other issues.

Flexi hose applications

These hoses are commonly used in residential and commercial plumbing applications, especially in situations where rigid pipes are impractical due to limited space or the need for flexibility. Some common uses for flexi hoses include:

1. Connecting faucets to water supply lines.
2. Connecting toilets to water supply lines.
3. Connecting washing machines to water supply lines.
4. Connecting dishwashers to water supply lines.
5. Connecting water heaters to plumbing systems.
6. Supplying water to refrigerators with ice and water dispensers.
7. Connecting various plumbing fixtures in tight or hard-to-reach spaces.

Causes of flexi hose failures.

According to reports by insurance companies, flexi hoses are the primary cause of internal flooding in homes. Imagine the stress and cleanup created by a flexi hose bursting, as it can leak up to 1500 liters of water per hour, flooding your home and damaging carpets, walls, flooring, and furniture. Not to mention the cost of the water that has been wasted and the essential repairs and replacement of your furnishings.

1. DIY culture is quite popular in Australia and a lot of people attempt to do plumbing installations themselves. If the flexi hose is attempted by a DIYer, it can get stretched, twisted, loose, or damaged. And break down within months of installation damaging the house.
2. Chemicals stored under the sink can cause the pipes to corrode. The household chemicals contain chlorine and as they are released in the closed cabinet, chlorine will form hydrochloric acid and cause corrosion in flexi hoses.
3. Chlorine in the water supply leaves behind a deposit of chloride and over time as the deposits build up it will corrode the steel element.
4. The chances of a flexi hose bursting are high if your property was built more than 10 years ago.

Inspect flexi hoses periodically for any signs of damage or wear.

Due to the high chance of a flexi hose bursting it's good practice to have regular maintenance and inspection to ensure their proper functioning and to prevent potential problems. It's important to check for corrosion, rust marks, or other noticeable damages to the pipes. Remember prevention is better than cure!

• Flexible connectors should have a WaterMark Identification and certifier number.
• Flexible connectors last for 5 years and if it is older than that it should be replaced.
• Buy a good-quality flexi hose and get it installed by a licensed plumber.
• Get the flexi hose inspected by a professional plumber to ensure they are in proper condition.
• Install a pressure-reducing valve to limit the pressure on the flexi hose
• Install a vent hole to allow ventilation and reduce chlorine levels.
• Check the collar of the flexi hose for warranty - flexi hoses have been in the market for over 25 years. Earlier the warranty used to be 5 years and now they come with a warranty of 10 years. If the flexi hose installed in your house is reaching its warranty period or shows rust marks, bulges, or kinks, get it replaced immediately by a qualified plumber.
• Consider a maintenance schedule for the pipes, drains, and appliances installed in your household.
• Switch off the water supply from the mains if you are going away for a vacation.

Don't wait until the unthinkable happens and the damage is done, call Everyday Plumbing and Gas to have your flexi hose checked or replaced by a licensed plumber. Simply phone 0406 400 200  or complete our booking request form today.