• Let's talk washer hoses----Rubber VS Steel braided

    Mon, 07/27/2020 - 21:06

    As I constantly search for new ways to provide added value for my clients in VANCOUVER and the LOWER MAINLAND during the inspection, I'm always happy to suggest simple improvements that can save them dollars and heartache. With the rising insurance costs and thinking back to an old inspector I trained with who always reminded us that "WATER WILL MAKE YOU BANKRUPT", we need to talk about washer hoses.

    Its always easy to pick the quickest, cheapest install or fix for something, but choosing the right washer hose is paramount especially if its above a living space. They need constant monitoring and should be replaced every 3-5 years.  Now lets compare the two...Rubber VS Steel

    Rubber

    These standard rubber hoses are cheap to purchase and can be found at any hardware store.  They can be reinforced with braided rayon or a polyster mesh. Unfortunately they lose flexibility over time and due to being under constant pressure, they eventually burst (usually when you're out of town). Constant flow of hot pressurized water causes bulging and cracks until the hose fails completely leading to catastrophic water damage (and huge insurance increases).

    Steel Braided

    Costing a little more than rubber, these hoses are well worth the price of admission. The steel braiding around the hose helps prevent bursting and the water damage that comes with it. They aren't fail proof but are safer than rubber. If your washer is in a tight space you can buy them pre-bent at the ends. They even have steel hoses with an auto-shutoff if they leak. That's genius!!

    Some things to keep in mind

    • monitor you hoses for kinks, bulges, or other signs of deterioration.
    • turn off water supply to washer if your going away.
    • replace hoses every 3-5 years.
    • don't run your washer if you're not  home.

    All these tips will help prevent leaks in your home.  Maybe STRATA will make steel braided hoses mandatory in all units??

    We can only wait and see, but until then do your part and swap out those old rubber hoses for steel braided!!

    As always give me a call for all your home inspection needs. I'm Mike from Best Coast inspections and can be reached at 6047620611.