Flexible braided hoses are a common sight in many Australian homes; however, few people realise that these seemingly innocuous components can lead to catastrophic flooding and costly repairs if they burst or fail.
Water damage insurance claims are a contributing factor in rising insurance costs and as such, repairs to flexible braided hoses is essential.
What’s a flexible braided hose?
Flexible braided hoses, also known as flexi hoses, are rubber pipes encased in braided lengths of stainless steel. These hoses are widely used under kitchen, and bathroom sinks across the country. They are easily bent into shape and aligned to fit under your sink and piping. They’re also cheap to buy and install.
While most flexible braided hoses have a warranty of up to 10 years, in some cases, they may burst well before this time frame is reached due to wear and tear. The resulting water damage can be devastating, with flooded ceilings, walls, floors, and ruined carpets, furniture, and other belongings.
In extreme cases, the water damage could affect the building’s structural integrity and require expensive repair work. It’s, therefore, essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with flexible braided hoses and take steps to ensure that they don’t cause unexpected damage.
How to minimise the risk of damage from your flexible braided hoses
Fortunately, you can take several simple measures to prevent water damage from occurring due to faulty or worn-out braided hoses.
Inspect –Â First, you should inspect all braided hoses regularly and look for signs of wear and tear or damage. Warning signs include bulging and rust spots on the braided metal. Fraying and kinking are also potential signs of damage.
Warranty – Track warranty periods on your hoses so you can replace them within a reasonable, safe time frame. The collar of the hose will have an expiry date. Note if you store chemicals under the sink, your hoses could be at risk of damage well before the expiry date.
Installation – Enlist the services of a licensed plumber to carry out any installation and maintenance.
Maintenance – Consider having a preventative maintenance program in place so that flexible hoses are inspected regularly for signs of damage or leakage.
You can prevent severe water damage in your home by checking and maintaining your flexible braided hoses. Don’t wait until it’s too late – make sure to have them checked regularly and take action when necessary. Regular maintenance can minimise the risk of expensive repairs and unnecessary insurance claims.
Key Takeaways:
- Regular inspections of flexible braided hoses are essential to catch any leaks or damage before it worsens.
- Quality connectors and hoses with reasonable warranties should be used to minimise the potential for water damage.
- A preventative maintenance program can help identify signs of damage or leakage and ensure that repairs or replacements are made before further damage occurs.
- By taking preventive measures now, you can save time, money and a lot of hassle later on.
