An observant client, a crucial part of our maintenance process, recently contacted Whywait Plumbing with a pertinent question: ” What do rust spots mean on the flexible hoses on my tap in the kitchen sink?” Your vigilance is critical to maintaining the health of your plumbing system.
Rust is always a warning sign, and in a kitchen cupboard, rust spots on the exterior of the stainless steel braided flexible hoses indicate that the hose should be replaced before it bursts. Either of the following causes the rust:
- chemical leakage from household chemicals stored in the cupboard
- deterioration of the inner rubber tube liner
Essentially, all stainless steel braided flexible hoses have a stainless steel braided sheath over an inner tube, usually made of highly durable EDPM rubber. Water pressure forces the EDPM rubber inner tubing to expand against the braiding to avoid uneven stress pressure and prevent further expansion.
If the inner tube liner ruptures and starts to leak, the braided stainless steel is also unlikely to rupture simultaneously. Usually, water will leak through the braided stainless steel initially, resulting in either rust spots, water leaking or ultimately, if the warning signs go unseen, a burst hose with the resultant flooding.
Like all plumbing fixtures, a stainless steel flexible hose has a life expectancy and does require periodic checking based on:
- ensuring water pressures are not exceeding 500kPa
- ensuring water temperature is not excessive
- are not being affected by corrosive chemicals
- are installed correctly, and the hose is not kinked or stretched
Preventative maintenance is always the most positive way to prevent plumbing emergencies, which is why Whywait Plumbing Service Partners receives annual testing of stainless steel flexible hose tap connectors. We identify the location and condition of all flexible tap or hose connections in your home used on your sink, vanity, and toilet cisterns to ensure you have no potential bursts lurking in your kitchen or bathroom.
Regular inspections are key to giving you control over your property’s safety and minimising the risk of a flooded house from a burst flexible hose. Our commitment to proactive maintenance is unwavering, and we recommend replacing them every 3-5 years as part of a comprehensive preventative maintenance plan.
