It costs around $10, lurks beneath hundreds of household kitchen and bathroom sinks across Australia, and could cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage if it is not checked regularly.
Flexible braided hoses accounted for more than one in five water damage claims lodged by Australian households in 2016, according to new research released by general insurer IAG
What are “flexible water hoses”? they are a stainless steel fabricated hose used to hook water to taps and fixtures. Replacing the standard copper pipe installations from the wall outlets to the taps under sinks, basins and tubs. Tapware whether mixer taps or hob mounted all have flexible hoses as part of their hardware. When purchased the box will include their own braided flexible hoses these cannot always be changed.
These hoses are also used on toilets and are used to replace the copper pipe connecting water from the stop tap to the cistern.
Zambezi plumbing and gas recommend you check your home insurance and make sure it is covered for flood insurance. The damage caused by a leaking flexible hose can be very expensive and incur a large insurance claim.
When venturing off on holiday, consider turning off the water to the flexible hoses to ensure you don’t come home to a nasty surprise. Imagine coming home to a costly water bill, not to mention large amount of damage and the inconvenience of repairs and insurance claims.
How can you prevent flexible water hose’s bursting at your property?
It is always best to use a qualified plumber to install the flexible hoses. They will choose the right length hose to ensure it’s not kinked, too loose or taut and will fit it correctly. Incorrect installation will cause the braiding to unravel and the hose to break and subsequently leak. Flexible hoses are also easy to cross thread or over tighten which can cause major leaks.
There is something called a “whisper flood stop isolating valve” so if a hose ever ruptures or snaps off. If these are too expensive you could install and Acro valve or mini stop so the water can be isolated immediately if a hose bursts.
Zambezi plumbing and gas recommend you carry out your own check on your hoses every couple of months. To do this carefully run your fingers along the hose (Just watch for sharp metal edges). If you do find a rusted spot or part of the braid on the hose is starting to unravel, give us a call and we will replace it as soon as possible.
If you can’t afford to install Whisper Flood Stop Isolating valves (for peace of mind, I recommend you DO get these valves) get your plumber to install Arco valves or mini stop valves on the water lines that have flexible hose connections. This means if you have the unfortunate experience of the flexible hose breaking and leaking full bore water, a valve under the sink or basin can be turned to stop the water. It also means your mains water will not need disconnecting the next time saving time and money.
There are also burst proof plastic hoses (said to be more durable than rubber) which claim they are burst proof. They also have a guarantee of up to 10 years so may be the better
