Water damage in homes can result from various factors, with bursting washing machine hoses being a significant contributor. Surprisingly, these hoses are one of the leading causes of severe water damage, accounting for around $150 million in flood-related losses annually in the United States. Understanding why this occurs and taking preventive measures can help safeguard your home from such incidents. Continue reading to find out more.

Water damage in homes can be caused by various factors, with bursting washing machine hoses being a surprising top culprit. These hoses are a major contributor to significant flood damage, accounting for about $150 million annually in the United States. Find out more about why this occurs and what steps you can take to avoid it in your own home.

5 Simple Steps to Prevent Your Washing Machine Hoses From Bursting:

A typical washing machine has three vulnerable hoses: one for hot water, one for cold water, and a drain hose. While all three pose a risk of bursting or leaking, the drain hose is the least concerning since it only contains water during the drainage cycle. In contrast, the hot and cold water lines are constantly under pressure from your household water supply, making them more prone to rupture. If your home’s water pressure exceeds 80 psi, the risk increases significantly. Additionally, high static pressure amplifies the water hammer effect, further elevating the likelihood of hose failure.

Whenever your washing machine stops the water supply, it generates a hydraulic shock that resonates through the pipes. This shockwave originates at the solenoid valve due to the abrupt alteration in water pressure. As theates through curved sections of pipe, it can or shift slightly. You may be familiar with the sound this produces during a wash cycle. Prolonged exposure to this phenomenon can put excessive stress on your water pipes, potentially leading to damage over time if the shock is enough.

Having a solid grasp of these factors and performing routine preventive maintenance can greatly reduce the risk of water damage caused by washing machine hoses.

1 Inspect them frequently.

Be sure to check your washing machine hoses regularly. It is recommended to inspect all three hoses every month. Watch out for any small while the machine is running. Pay close attention to the connections for any signs of water. Examine the hoses for any damage like bends, splits, or worn areas.

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2 Turn off the water supply when not in use.

It’s essential to cut off the water supply to your washing machine when it’s not in operation. This simple step is often emphasized in the user manual, yet frequently overlooked. If your valves are outdated or stubborn, consider replacing them with newer models that are easier to operate. This is especially true being notorious for not fully closing when they’ve been idle for a while.

3 Install an emergency shutoff kit.

Investing in an emergency shutoff kit costly repairs caused by ruptured hoses. This device is equipped with a sensor that triggers an alarm and instantly cuts off the water supply in the event of a hose failure. With a relatively low upfront cost, these kits can provide significant long-term savings. To ensure optimal performance, it’s recommended to test them periodically, ideally every few months.

4 Change water hoses every 3-5 years.

Replace your water hoses every 3-5 years to avoid them bursting due to wear and tear. It’s important to change them before they become worn out. You may find it surprisingly easy to replace them on your own, as the connections are similar to those of an outdoor hose faucet. For straightforward instructions, refer to the link provided.

5 Use stainless steel braided hoses.

Consider opting for stainless steel braided hoses. While they may appear more costly due to their aesthetic appeal compared to standard rubber hoses, they offer more than just good looks. These hoses are highly durable and have a longer lifespan. The steel braid reinforces the rubber, reducing the risk of bursting. Despite their initial cost, they are still reasonably priced and prove to be a worthwhile investment over time.

Chrome Air Conditioning Plumbing support for all your plumbing upkeep requirements. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden emergency like a ruptured washing machine hose or just want the peace of mind that comes with having a professional inspection and replacement, trust Legacy Plumbing to get the job done.