Flexible Hose Leaking Under Sink? A Perth Plumber’s Guide
You’re reaching under your kitchen sink and feel something wet. That sinking feeling hits as you discover a water leak that could potentially cause thousands in damage. You’re not alone – flexible braided hoses are responsible for one in five water damage insurance claims in Australian homes.
What Causes Flexible Hose Leaks Under Your Sink?
Your under-sink flexible hoses face daily pressure changes and movement that can lead to serious problems. As Perth’s leading plumbing experts, we regularly see several major causes:
Poor Installation
Getting proper access under a kitchen sink is challenging. Without the right tools and expertise, connections often end up poorly tightened, creating slow leaks that can go unnoticed for weeks.
Low-Quality Materials
Many flexible hoses are manufactured with substandard materials that deteriorate quickly in Perth’s climate. These cheaper options are prone to:
- Rust development
- Steel braiding frays
- Inner rubber tube deterioration
Chemical Damage
Common household cleaning products stored under your sink can accelerate hose deterioration:
- Bleach and harsh cleaners can corrode the braided steel exterior
- Chemical vapours from cleaning products can weaken the rubber inner tube
- Spills from cleaning products or drain cleaners can damage the protective coating
Physical Stress
The environment under your sink creates several challenges:
- Constant vibration from dishwashers
- Temperature fluctuations from hot water use
- Items stored in the cabinet pushing against or rubbing on hoses
- Regular movement from opening and closing cabinet doors
Why Flexible Hose Leaks Are a Serious Problem
A damaged flexible hose can release up to 1,200 litres of water per hour – equivalent to filling your bathtub every seven minutes. This volume can cause:
- Extensive cabinet damage
- Floor and wall deterioration
- Dangerous mould growth
- Structural issues, if left unchecked
Emergency Steps for a Leaking Flexible Hose
- Immediately turn off your water supply:
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- Use the mini isolation valve if installed (under the sink)
- If no isolation valve is present, turn off your water meter at the property boundary
- Place a bowl under the leak to contain any residual water
- Contact No Probs Plumbing immediately at (08) 9315 5545 for prompt assistance.
Protecting Your Home from Flexible Hose Failures
Professional Replacement
Our Perth plumbers recommend replacing flexible hoses every 5 years with high-quality alternatives. We use premium materials that significantly outlast standard options.
Flood Stop Valve Installation
We can install specialised flood stop valves that automatically cut water flow if a hose fails – providing 24/7 protection for your home.
Mini Isolation Valve Installation
These essential valves should be standard in every home but are often skipped by contractors to cut costs. They allow you to:
- Quickly shut off the water at the source
- Prevent extensive water damage
- Easily isolate water for maintenance
- Save time in emergencies
Why Choose No Probs Plumbing for Your Flexible Hose Needs?
- Free flexible hose inspections
- Same-day emergency service across Perth
- Premium materials and workmanship
- Fully qualified and licensed plumbers
- Comprehensive plumbing solutions
Don’t wait for a disaster to strike. Contact Perth’s flexible hose specialists at No Probs Plumbing at (08) 9315 5545 for a free inspection today.