What to do if washing machine hose fails?

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Washing Machine Hoses

A broken supply hose causes more than half of all water damage insurance claims. These insurance claims are costly. The average claim is around $6,000. If the homeowner fails to monitor the condition of the hose, it can burst. A busted hose can spill hundreds of gallons of water within an hour. Significant volumes of water can cause catastrophic water damage in Edmond in a very little time. 

There are several causes of a washing machine hose break, they include: 

Age

The hose is old and has worn out over time. If the hose is more than five years old, there is an increased risk of the hose wearing out. More than 80 percent of hoses fail between their sixth and tenth year of use.

Materials

The type of hose affects its durability. Reinforced rubber hoses, while of good quality, weaken with age, are susceptible to cracks and leaks resulting in flood damage. Floodchek hoses are the best quality.

Installation

An improperly installed hose can also cause the hose to fail. The most common installation problem involves not leaving enough room to prevent kinks in the hose.

To avoid dealing with a burst hose, replace them every five years with a steel-jacket hose. Labeling the hose with the installation date will help with remembering when to replace them. A visual inspection of the hoses every six months ensures that any initial signs of wear are identified.

Piping

You cannot prevent a piping problem without knowing the type of piping that is in your home. Different types of piping will have different types of issues. If you have a home inspection before you purchase a home in Bixby, ask the inspector about the types of pipes in the house. You can also contact a plumber to inspect your home for potential water damage.

Understanding the types of pipes in your home can determine the pipes life expectancy and how to avoid leaks, flood and health issues. The age of the pipe is not a definitive determination of its remaining life span. However, it can serve as a good estimate. Maintained pipes will have a longer life than pipes that are not maintained. When pipes have exceeded their lifespan plumbing issues, like leaking and water damage, will arise. 

Pipe Problems

Lead and polybutylene pipes, most commonly used years ago, are known for their early deterioration and susceptibility to breaking. If you think you have these types of pipes, have them inspected by a plumber. When these pipes deteriorate, the water quality decreases and the chances for leaks and water damage increases. Lead pipes can last for roughly 100 years. However, many people replace these pipes sooner because of the issues associated with lead usage.

Water Heaters

In a study by the Institute for Business and Home Safety, water heater malfunctions are the leading cause of water damage insurance claims in residential properties. The cost of these claims is often around $4,000. The majority of water heater failures are the result of burst or leaking tanks. If the water heater is more than five years old, the chances of it failing increases. The average water heater does not last beyond twelve years. 

All water heaters will weaken over time. The water’s mineral content, frequency of use, and its maintenance schedule affects their lifespan. Many people avoid purchasing a new water heater because of its cost. However, the costs associated with a leaking water heater may be far more expensive.

Maintenance Tips

Here are a few maintenance tips that will help to prolong the life of a water heater.

• Make sure there is at least two feet of clearance around the water heater.
• Flush the tank annually to remove any debris and sediment.
• Check the anode rod every three to five years. If the core steel wire is exposed more than six inches or the rod is caked, replace it.

Unfortunately, because these three systems go unnoticed, they are neglected. The neglect can result in problems. Taking a moment to routinely check them will avoid catastrophic problems that can damage your home.

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