Why it’s important to have Flexi-hoses regularly inspected and replaced

Flexi hoses, also known as braided hoses, quick connect hoses or easy hookers, are now used widely across the modern plumbing system. They were originally designed to make the plumbing installation a lot easier when installing most inside plumbing fixtures.

They are generally used to connect the water points to taps and toilets and other appliances with some restrictions. They are very versatile and durable, however like most parts these hoses do have a limited lifespan and if not maintained or installed correctly initially they can pose a risk.

Regular inspections and replacement typically every 5 years is crucial to avoid potential costly flood damage. Flexi-hoses can burst at any time, whether in your home or away and can cause extreme damage within minutes.

Flexi hoses don’t last forever

Even though flexi-hoses appear to be almost indestructible and long-lasting there are several factors what causes them to fail.

High water pressure that exceeds the manufactures’ recommendation is one of the causes of the flexi-hose to burst. The hoses are designed to withstand up to 500kpa which is the maximum pressure limit inside a house in NSW, but most homes usually have over this limit and the owner is unaware.

This over pressure is becoming an issue with insurance claims when the homeowner must put a claim through their building insurance after a flexi-hose has burst and flooded out a bathroom or vanity and the claim is denied.

It is recommended that the homeowner contacts Shipways Effective Plumbing to carry out a pressure test at their home and if the pressure does exceed the maximum pressure, they can install a pressure reduction valve at the water meter to insure it meets the As3500 code and claims cannot be denied.

Other factors causing flexi-hoses to fail are when the hose is kinked/stretched either when it is being installed or the angle of the hose when in position.

This can put pressure on the inner tube which then can be damaged by the stainless steel outer sheath.

Water temperature is another known problem that reducers the life of the flexi-hose. Over a long period of time, the heat weakens the inner tube and makes the tubing becoming brittle.

An external environmental factor can be the chemicals that are stored underneath the vanity near the braided hoses. These chemicals can start to break down the braid which then cuts through the inner tube, causing it to burst.

Flexi-hoses are not permitted to be used in all applications

This isn’t a very well-known fact and in fact unfortunately even some licensed plumbers are not aware of this.

Flexi-hoses do need maintenance and due to this they are not permitted to be in a concealed space. It includes wall cavities or underground applications.

They are also not to be used when connecting to a hot water system hot or cold connection points. This is due to the continual heat emitting from the tank drastically reduces the durability of the hose and creates the potential for the hose to burst.

Don’t get caught out with old flexi-hoses in your home, simply call our team to carry out the required inspections and replacements where required.

Get in touch with the team at Shipways Effective Plumbing a call on 0410 638 342 for your next plumbing booking.