A flexible hose also known as a flex line or braided hose is normally located under the sink of your bathroom, kitchen or laundry. They are pipes made from rubber that are encased with stainless steel.
This product is widely used across Australia and has been used for around 25 years. Before that time, copper piping was mainly used in homes across the country.
They are easily installed as they can be bent and shaped to fit under your vanity sink, this is where the name 'Flexible' came.
They are relatively cheap to source and you can find them in most plumbing hardware stores.
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Are Flexi hoses any good?
Flexible hoses are good for tight positions and awkward installations. And because they are cheap, sourcing them is easy.
One thing to keep in mind is the shelf life of these are not very long and even though they may come with a warranty of 10 years, it is difficult to determine when the hose was certified in the first place.
The downfall for having this product in your home is the risk of damage from a burst flexi hose.
The stainless braided lining may fail, and the flexi hose tube expands and bursts. The damage a burst flexible water hose can create can be severe.
With any burst pipe, you are looking at flooding, growing mould, water damage to ceilings and walls, wet furniture and carpets as well as electrical appliances. Most severe cases include collapsed ceilings and foundational damage.
How do you prevent damage from a flexible braided hose?
There are ways to ensure your flexible water hose stays working in the best condition. By following these guidelines, you can prolong the life of the flexi hose and prevent a plumbing catastrophe.
Having a professional plumbing team on call to follow correct processes for the installation of a flexible braided hose is always the best way to go.
Inspection
Regular checking of your flexible water hoses is the best form of defence against leaks and bursting pipes. You can look out for signs such as rusty spots on the stainless steel and any fraying.
A misshapen hose could indicate damage. Routine inspections can be carried out through a maintenance plan organised by your trusted plumber.
Installation
A licenced plumber is the only person who should carry out any plumbing works in your property. They have the right tools for the job and have the knowledge to connect the stainless steel flexible hose the right way.
You shouldn't attempt to carry out any plumbing works yourself no matter how simple or quick it may seem.
Having the experience and right qualifications can make the difference between an efficient plumbing system or water damage and severe complications in your home.
Warranty
With the proper install, a reasonable warranty period should be applied. Monitoring the expiry date and condition of the flexi is crucial for honouring the warranty period.
Your licenced plumber will be able to assist you with any warranty questions you may have.
Make sure you do your part to keep your hose in good condition such as keeping chemicals array from the area.
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Maintenance
With any plumbing in and around your property, regular maintenance is important to prevent premature issues and damage occurring.
You can ask your trusted plumbing company of their regular maintenance plans for various fixtures and systems. This goes for water pipes and flexible hoses as well.
With the maintenance plan in place, leaks and rust will be identified and repaired.
Ensuring that your flexible hose is free from leaks, rust and potential cracks is the best form of defence against water damage caused by flooding and moisture from leaks and drips.
This can be easily done by paying attention to the expiry date on the flexi and implementing a maintenance program with the help of your local trusted plumbing company.
Fixed Today are experts in all areas of plumbing. We have the necessary tools and experience to ensure your flexible hose is free from leaks.
Keeping your home safe from flooding and water damage is our priority and we can call us any time to assist you with any plumbing, drainage or gas needs you may have.
