Anything that’s exposed to water too often will inevitably deteriorate over time. That’s especially true for items that aren’t necessarily designed to withstand water damage, mold, and mildew.
So don’t be surprised if it seems that your washing machine hose looks like it’s ripe for a replacement.
Manufacturers don’t necessarily design these accessories to last forever.
So there will come a time when you might have to replace your washing machine hose. The question is, how long does it take before that has to happen?
Here are the answers.
- Washing machine hoses have a lifespan of three to five years.
- Constant exposure to moisture can cause bacteria, mold, and mildew to grow inside a washing machine hose.
- Rubber material, in particular, can deteriorate and crack over time.
- If you don’t plan on replacing a hose that’s still in good condition, consider cleaning it.
Washing machine hoses can deteriorate after several years of water exposure. Because they’re entirely dried inside, they may become a breeding ground for bacteria.
So to make sure the water that enters your washing machine is clean, you must replace your hose now and then.
How Long Does a Washing Machine Hose Last?
Manufacturers don’t put a number on it, but experts claim that washing machine hoses last for about 3 to 5 years before they need to be replaced.
So regardless of the condition of your hose, if it has reached the end of its usable lifespan, it’s time to switch it out for a new one.
If you have a stainless steel hose that looks like it’s still in good condition, replace it. Inside the stainless steel, the hose is a rubber hose.
The braided stainless steel encases the hose as an added protective measure.
That said, the interior rubber material will still collect contamination over time. So once the five-year period is up, ensure you have it replaced.
Why Should You Replace a Washing Machine Hose?
Many people see the washing machine hose as just another accessory that doesn’t need too much attention. And that’s partly true in that you probably won’t spend much time, effort, or money on keeping your washing machine hose in check.
But even then, the accessory can deteriorate over time. The rubber hoses, in particular, succumb to water damage, leading to cracks and breaks in the material.
If it becomes too brittle and delicate, a slight nudge or tug could cause a rupture and may lead to an expensive flooding accident in your utility room.
However, that’s not the whole story. Remember that mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria love dark, damp places.
Since the inside of your hose probably never gets cleaned or dried, it provides opportunistic contaminants the perfect place to call home.
As a result, the water fed into your washing machine might be contaminated with unsavory microbes. This won’t only lead to a poor quality wash but might also cause health problems in your household.
Takeaway
How long have you had your washing machine hose? Don’t hesitate to replace it if it has reached the end of its lifespan.
This can improve the quality of your wash and save you from expensive water damage down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Is a Washing Machine Hose Replacement?
Most hardware stores sell washing machine replacement hoses with universal connectors. Unfortunately, these cost an average of $25 apiece.
Are Stainless Steel Hoses Better Than Rubber?
In a way, they can be. The braided stainless steel material is merely an encasement that protects an internal rubber hose.
Compared to bare rubber hoses, however, stainless steel hoses present an undoubted advantage in that they’re less prone to breaking, cracking, and twirling.
