How To Prevent Burst Flexi Hoses 

What Are Flexi Hoses?

Flexi hoses, also called flexible connectors or braided hoses, changed the way plumbers install plumbing systems. They are easy to fit, flexible, and commonly used under sinks, basins, and toilets.

At first, people mainly used these connectors in commercial and industrial plumbing. In the 1980s and 1990s, they became popular in Australian homes. This was due to their low cost, small size, and easy installation.

Today, almost every Melbourne home has multiple flexi hoses. While convenient, they also have a serious downside: when they burst, they can leak up to 1,500 litres of water per hour. This makes them one of the leading causes of flooding inside Australian homes.

If you’re worried about your hoses, it’s best to call a licensed Melbourne plumber for an inspection.

Why Flexi Hoses Burst or Fail

While people find flexi hoses handy, they sometimes call them “ticking time bombs.” Common reasons for failure include:

• Aging & corrosion – The stainless-steel braid can weaken over time. Cheaper hoses use thin braiding that corrodes quickly.
• High water pressure – Excess pressure expands the inner rubber tube, causing rupture if not controlled. This also explains why we need to reduce high water pressure.
• Poor installation – DIY installation or twisting the hose can create weak spots.
• Over- or under-tightened nuts – Both can lead to leaks and eventual bursting.
• Closed cupboard environments – High humidity and chlorine fumes from cleaning products corrode the braiding faster.

Groups like the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) and the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) have made rules. These guidelines cover how to make, install, and maintain flexible hoses.

The purpose of these standards is to make sure flexi hoses are high quality and safe. They also ensure that the hoses last a long time. This applies to plumbing systems in Australia.

The Risks of a Burst Flexi Hose

When a flexi hose fails, it can release 1,500 litres of water every hour into your home. This leads to:

• Major water damage to floors, walls, and cabinetry
• Mould growth and structural issues
• Expensive insurance claims (up to 22% of water damage claims in Australia come from burst hoses)
• Plumbing emergencies that require immediate response

If your hose is over 5 years old, you should get it checked by a local plumber to prevent costly disasters.

How to Minimise the Risks

To avoid burst hoses and water damage, follow these steps:

• Install quality good hoses that have the WaterMark Certification – Avoid cheap, thin-braided models.
• Schedule plumbing inspections – Licensed plumbers can check hoses during routine maintenance.
• Ventilate under-sink cupboards – Prevent excess moisture and chemical fumes from corroding the braiding.
• Use leak detection devices – Jet Plus Plumbing can install a Flow Leak Protector. This device alerts you through an app if it detects water.
• Replace hoses every 5–10 years – Don’t wait until they fail.

Why Call a Licensed Plumber?

At Jet Plus Plumbing, we’ve responded to countless plumbing emergencies caused by burst flexi hoses. Regular checks could have prevented many of these.

As licensed plumbers in Melbourne, we:

• Install only quality, compliant hoses
• Provide routine inspections to spot early damage
• Offer emergency plumbing services if a burst occurs
• Can also help with related issues like blocked drains, hot water repairs, and gas leak detection

Book a Flexi Hose Inspection Today

If your flexi hoses are over 5 years old, or if you are unsure about their condition, call an emergency plumber now.

Jet Plus Plumbing offers regular plumbing maintenance and emergency response across Melbourne. Don’t risk flooding – book an inspection today.

Call Jet Plus Plumbing on 0421 725 624 or book online here for fast, reliable service.