Washing machine hoses connect your top- or front-load washing machine with the valve that supplies water to each wash cycle. Although washing machine hoses are often overlooked, they’re some of the most common causes of water leaks in the home. For this reason, washing machine hoses need to be properly installed and maintained to stay intact and functional.
We’ll break down everything you need to know about washing machine hoses, such as how to install them and how to maintain them effectively.
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Why Washing Machine Hoses Leak
Here are the most common reasons a washing machine hose leaks:
- Wear and tear: No matter what type of washing machine hose you select, all will undergo normal wear and tear over time and eventually need replacement to avoid laundry leaks. All washing machine hoses will experience wear and tear over time due to high water pressure and water hammer, a hydraulic shock that increases water pressure after a cycle completes. This damage can cause hoses to crack or burst.
- Poor water quality: Poor water quality, particularly hard water, can corrode the inside of washing machine hoses and cause sediment buildup.
- Installation errors: A leak can form during plumbing installation if the hose connector isn’t correctly tightened to the water valve or washing machine. A hose can also leak or burst if it’s twisted or bent during installation.
- Worn rubber washer: A rubber washer sits at the end of the hose, sealing the supply valve and preventing water from leaking out. This rubber washer starts to wear down and loosen over time, allowing water to seep through.
How To Choose Washing Machine Hoses
Selecting the right washing machine hose helps prevent leaks and water damage, and not all hoses are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
- Rubber hoses: This is the least durable option; prone to cracking and bursting over time. It’s not ideal for households with high water pressure or frequent use. Risky choice for long-term reliability.
- Reinforced rubber hoses: These are significantly more durable than standard rubber hoses, though still susceptible to wear over time. They are reinforced with polyester or braided nylon, making them more resistant to kinking and a good middle-ground option for budget-conscious households with moderate water pressure.
- Braided stainless steel hoses: This is the industry standard, and they are coated in a woven layer of stainless steel for maximum durability. They have a built-in auto-shutoff valve and are highly resistant to kinks, bursts, and leaks. They are the best option for maximum peace of mind and reliability and are ideal for households with high water pressure or frequent use. They may cost more than reinforced rubber hoses.
How To Install Washing Machine Hoses
These are the steps necessary to install a new washing machine and hook up the hoses, whether they’re steel-braided or made of reinforced rubber.
- Before touching the hoses, turn off your washing machine by cutting the power at the breaker box. Then, unplug the machine’s electrical cord from the outlet.
- Carefully move the washing machine away from the wall, giving yourself enough space to access the water valves, hoses, and back of the washing machine.
- Turn off the water supply at the valves located on the wall behind the washing machine.
- Grab an empty bucket and some old towels. Remove one hose at a time from the back of the washing machine, using the bucket to drain excess water from the line. After draining each line and cleaning up any spills, remove each hose from its water supply valve. Remember to turn the hose’s fittings clockwise, using pliers when necessary.
- Connect the new hoses to the water supply valves, first hand-tightening before using pliers to secure. Using the same method, connect the hose to the washing machine fittings. The hoses are color-coded to match the hot and cold water valves, with red for hot and blue for cold.
- Turn the water supply valves back on and thoroughly check for any leaks.
- If you don’t see any leaks, plug in the washing machine and push it back into place, ensuring there are at least 4 inches between the unit and the wall. Before switching the power back on, make sure the hoses aren’t twisted or bent, which could hasten wear and tear.
Preventive Care Tips
To help maintain your washing machine hoses, follow these simple tips:
- Inspect your washing machine hoses frequently, checking that they’re not twisted, bent, or corroding.
- Replace your washing machine hoses every three to five years.
- Install a water hammer arrestor, which helps absorb the shock of water that increases pressure within the hose after the washing machine cycle ends.
- Turn off the water supply to washing machines when they aren’t in use. This will minimize the amount of water pressure the hoses are exposed to over time.
- If you don’t feel comfortable installing hoses on your own, have a plumber take care of supply lines to gain peace of mind that they’re properly fitted.
FAQs About Washing Machine Hoses
How do you care for washing machine hoses?
The best ways to take care of washing machine hoses are by inspecting them frequently, by cleaning them at least once a year, and by replacing the hose every three to five years.
Can you install washing machine hoses by yourself?
Yes, you can install washing machine hoses by yourself. Remember to turn off the water supply and unplug your washer before doing so.
When should you replace a washing machine hose?
It’s best to replace washing machine hoses every three to five years. Also, consider replacing them if the hoses become twisted, bent, or corroded.
