Have you discovered standing water in your laundry room? It could be time to replace washing machine hoses.
A broken washing machine hose might result in thousands of dollars' worth of plumbing service and water damage to your house. Many people don't think about the washer hoses, assuming they are not prone to failure. When you consider how much water goes through those tiny tubes, it's no wonder they're prone to ware down and eventually fail.
A worn-out washer hose may burst, sending gallons of pent-up water into your home. If no one is available to shut off the water supply valve when you return, the resulting flood can destroy your property.
According to Farmer's Insurance, broken water lines cause half of all water damage claims involving washing machines, and average $5,000 per incident. It's worth the ten minutes and $10 to $25 in materials to avoid headaches from old washer hoses!
Washing Machine Hose Preventive Care Tips
To help maintain your washing machine hoses, follow these simple tips:
- Check your hose's cold water connection and hot water connection on a regular basis to make sure they're not twisted, bent, or rusted.
- Replace your washing machine hot water hose and cold water hoses every three to five years.
- Installing a water hammer arrestor to the wash-end of the hose absorbs the energy from water that leads to higher pressure within the hose after the washing machine cycle is completed.
- When washing machines aren't in use, turn off the water supply to them. Over time, this will limit the amount of water pressure the hoses are subjected to.
Types of Washing Machine Hoses
There are many types of washing machine hoses, but the two most common ones people come across are rubber washing machine hoses and steel braided hoses. Depending on several factors you may need to replace either one or both of these hoses rather than just their connectors. These washing machine hoses should be replaced every three to five years for optimal performance.
Signs Washing Machine Hose Replacement is Needed
When your washing machine hose leaks at its connection point, it is time to get a new washing machine hose. If the washing machine hose is leaking from other areas along its length, however, this may indicate that your washing machine hose needs tightening instead of replacement. Signs that you should replace your washing machine hot and cold water hose include excessive black mold or mildew around the washing machine hose opening and bulging washing machine hoses.
If your washing machine hose is more than five years old and you have not replaced it yet, it is recommended that you do so. The lifespan of a washing machine hose can depend on the quality of the hose and how often it is used. If you have a braided metal washing machine hose, it is important to replace this every 10 years as they are known to corrode over time.
Steps for Replacing Old Washing Machine Hoses
Replacing washing machine hoses is a relatively easy task that can be done by most homeowners. Below are the steps necessary to replace your washing machine hoses:
1. Turn off the water supply valves to the washing machine located under the sink, in the wall, or at the water meter.
2. Disconnect the washing machine hose from the washing machine.
3. Remove the screws that secure the washing machine hose to the washing machine.
4. Reconnect the new hoses to the washing machine and tighten the screws.
5. Reconnect the other end of the washing machine hose to the water supply and turn on the water valves.
6. Test your washing machine for leaks.
7. If there are no leaks, congratulations! You have successfully replaced your washing machine hoses.
Trust ARS/Rescue Rooter to Keep The Laundry Rolling
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about replacing your washing machine hoses. Whether you choose to do it yourself or call in a professional, make sure that you replace your washing machine hoses every three to five years to prevent any damage or leaks.
If you're interested in the peace of mind having a leak detection system installed in your home, book an appointment online for one of our comfort specialists at ARS/Rescue Rooter to perform a free in-home evaluation and estimate.
