Burst flexi hoses are a common problem in Australian homes, yet most people don’t know or simply overlook the damage a burst flexi hose can cause.
In fact, it is estimated that 22% of all water damage in Australian homes is caused by a burst flexible hose, according to data provided by IAG, one of Australia’s leading insurance agencies.
So, what is a flexi hose? Where are they typically found in the home? Why do people use them? What can you do to prevent them from bursting? How can you tell if a flexi hose is compromised and may burst? We will answer all of these questions and more.
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What is a flexi hose?
A flexi hose, also known as a flexible hose or flexible connector, is a type of hose typically used in homes and buildings to connect appliances that use water. These hoses are typically made of a rubber pipe enmeshed in braided lengths of stainless steel. They come in a range of lengths and sizes depending on the appliance they will connect to.
Where do you usually find flexi hoses in the home?
Flexi hoses are found under sinks, in the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry.
While flexi hoses can be more than a nuisance when they burst, they are an essential part of any home’s plumbing system and deserve the attention and maintenance necessary to prevent costly damage and repairs. If you need help replacing or repairing flexi hoses in your home, contact us today. We are available 24/7 to respond to all of your plumbing needs, no matter how big or small!
Why do people use flexible hoses?
For the most part, people use flexible hoses as they are cheap and easy to find. On top of this, they are extremely flexible and can be moulded and shaped in order to fit under sinks that may otherwise be difficult to plumb with a rigid copper pipe. These benefits are generally deemed to outweigh the risks, especially when well maintained.
How often should I replace my flexi hose?
Each brand and type of flexi hose will have different longevity. The flexi hoses we choose to work with at DCM have a ten-year warranty, but if you’re unsure of the quality of your flexi hoses or when they were put in, replacing them every five years is a safe bet.
Remember, the price for neglecting a hose is far greater than that of replacement! We’d recommended performing a check on the flexi hoses in your home once every six months to be sure that they haven’t been damaged.
Signs that your flexi hose might burst
If you notice any signs of wear or damage, such as:
- Bulging
- Cracks
- Fraying
- Leaks
- Corrosion
It is best to replace your flexi hose right away.
The damage a burst flexi pipe can cause
How to prevent a flexible hose from bursting
The best way to prevent a flexible hose from bursting is to perform a check every six months and replace them if they seem damaged, or once every five years if they seem undamaged but you’re unsure of the quality, or at the end of the 10-year warranty period if you choose to work with DCM Plumbing. There are a variety of other measures that you can take in order to prevent a flexi hose from bursting or at least mitigate the damage caused by a burst flexi pipe, such as:
Installing a pressure-limiting valve
Installing a pressure limiting valve means that the pressure entering your flexi hose doesn’t get past a certain threshold, therefore your flexi hose won’t be subject to overly high pressures, which will reduce wear and tear and also reduce any damage if the hose were to burst, as less water would be flowing through the pipe.
Installing an isolation tap to the flexi hose connections in your home
Isolation taps are a great way to mitigate damage from a burst flexi hose, as they allow you to control the flow of water to each one. This means that if a flexi hose were to burst, you’d be able to quickly turn off the water supply to the hose and prevent further damage.
Making sure to buy good-quality flexi hoses
A simple yet effective fix. Don’t cheap out on your flexi hoses, as they are a crucial part of your home’s plumbing system. Investing in good quality flexi hoses will ensure that they last longer and are less likely to burst, saving you time, effort, and money in the long run.
Turning off the main water supply if you’re going away for an extended period of time
If you’re going away for any extended period of time, be sure to turn off the main water supply. This will nullify the likelihood of water damage while you’re away, so you can rest easy knowing that your pipes and flexi hoses won’t cause issues when you’re not home. A burst flexi hose when you’re away on holiday means you could have thousands of litres of water flooding your home, leading to thousands of dollars in damages. Don’t take the risk! Take our word for it when we say we’ve seen the damage a flexi hose can do…
DCM Plumbing can help install, maintain, and repair any flexi hoses in your home
When it comes to flexi hoses, there’s no point in risking it; it’s always best left to the experts. At DCM Plumbing, we have years of experience working with flexi hoses and know how to keep them in tip-top condition, and when to replace them. Whether you’re looking for installation, repair, or are interested in any of the preventative measures we mentioned, get in touch with us today and we’ll be happy to help! With expertise in all areas of plumbing and competitive prices, DCM Plumbing is the best choice for any flexi-hose needs in your Gold Coast home. Contact us today.
