When it comes to plumbing issues, correctly maintaining your garden hoses may not be the first thing that comes to mind. People tend to overlook water management services on their outdoor maintenance list. However, taking care of your hoses can save you money in the long run, especially in terms of preventing various plumbing problems.
Additionally, garden hoses are integral to your overall outdoor plumbing system. If they are functioning properly, it signifies an efficient plumbing setup. On the other hand, if your hoses are not in good condition, you not only waste water unnecessarily, you could also face potential issues in your garden, such as annoying and potentially hazardous water puddles.
Causes of Water Hose Damages
Maintaining a functional water hose is crucial for your garden and lawn, and this should ideally be done year-round. Unfortunately, hoses are often left carelessly in such places as the patio, curb, or driveway. At times, it’s just left sprawled in the yard, exposing them to various types of risks.
Below are some of the common causes of water hose damage:
1. Abrasion
One of the most frequent types of hose damage is abrasion, which occurs when hoses are dragged or pushed against rough surfaces like concrete. Over time, the outer layer of the hose becomes thinner, and this can lead to leaks. Consider using a nylon or plastic guard to protect the hose from the dangers of abrasion.
2. Exposure
Exposing your hose to harsh elements like sunlight, rain, dust, and snow can weaken its components and cause the hose to break. To mitigate this, consider wrapping the hose in a plastic bag or storing it in a covered area like the garage after each use.
3. Excessive Bending
Plumbers in Denver said that bending a hose forcefully or kinking it can exceed its bending limits and cause significant damage. A bend restrictor, or a rubber or plastic sleeve can help prevent cases of excessive bending.
4. Misuse
Using a hose for anything other than its intended purpose, including the insertion of wrong fittings or clamps, can result in damage. Depending on the severity, the hose may be rendered useless and require replacement.
5. Tube Erosion
Filling a hose with highly concentrated fluids that contain unknown particles can lead to tube erosion over time, resulting in leaks. To prevent this from happening, make sure that the hose is capable of handling the concentration and velocity of the fluids that you will use it together with.
6. Excessive Pressure
A sudden surge of water pressure passing through the hose can cause tears, especially around the bends. You can apply temporary fixes if this occurs, although keeping the water pressure at acceptable levels is a better preventive measure.
7. Old Age
Hoses naturally deteriorate over time due to wear and tear. Signs of aging include discoloration, stiffness, and potential bursting, even under low water pressures. In general, the life span of a quality hose can last for about 10 years, depending on its composition. Beyond this timeframe, you may need to consider buying a new water hose.
8. Poor Workmanship
Defects or deviations in manufacturing hoses and their fittings can be due to human error, faulty machinery, or substandard quality control. Improper coupling techniques and using incompatible materials can also lead to low-quality hoses that easily get damaged.
9. Hose Twisting
During installation, twisting the hose instead of properly bending it can significantly reduce its life span. A 7% twist in a hose for permanent applications can reduce its life expectancy by up to 90%.
10. Fluid Incompatibility
While garden hoses are typically compatible with water, using other fluids can lead to disintegration from the inside, causing leaks and wasted water. Strong chemicals in the fluid can also cause hose discoloration, sponginess, swelling, and eventual leaks.
11. Defective Hose
Some hose problems, such as tube and cover separation, blowouts, and pinholes, may already exist when you purchase the product. While some defects may be evident shortly after use, others may remain hidden for a longer period. Inspecting your hose for any signs of early damage before each use is advisable.
12. Flexibility Issues
If your hose is shorter than usual, it may have difficulty contracting or expanding when exposed to temperature changes or extreme pressures. Inspect the hose’s flexibility to ensure that it functions property.
Conclusion
Choosing a suitable hose is essential for garden enthusiasts, as not all are created equal. Some hoses are more susceptible to damage due to the use of inferior materials or because of haphazard production procedures. When these issues arise, leaks can occur in the hose, which will likely necessitate repairs, if not replacement.
Proper care is crucial to extend the life span of your water hose. You must avoid certain actions that can render them ineffective, such as excessive bending or using the hose for non-gardening purposes. If your hose gets damaged and is beyond repair, it’s important to replace it promptly to prevent further issues. Leaving a damaged hose alone can lead to leaks, potentially causing plumbing problems that will require the assistance of a professional plumber.
