You’ve probably seen them — thin, braided stainless steel hoses under your sink or behind your toilet. They’re called flexi hoses (short for flexible hoses), and while they may look harmless, they’re one of the leading causes of household water damage on the Gold Coast, in fact across Australia!
What Is a Flexi Hose?
A flexi hose is a flexible, braided connector that links your water supply to fixtures like taps, toilets, and washing machines. They’re popular because they’re easy to install, affordable, and space-efficient. But they’re not built to last forever.
Most flexi hoses have a lifespan of 5–10 years — and many homes have several installed without the owner even knowing.
The Risk: When Flexi Hoses Burst
Over time, flexi hoses can deteriorate due to:
- Constant water pressure
- Exposure to heat and cleaning chemicals
- Physical kinks or stretching during installation
- Corrosion, especially if the stainless steel is low quality
When a flexi hose bursts, it can release hundreds of litres of water per hour, causing:
- Flooded kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms
- Water-damaged floors, cabinetry, and walls
- Mould growth and structural damage
- Thousands of dollars in repair bills
- Insurance headaches – especially if regular maintenance wasn’t done
In fact, 80–90% of after-hours emergency plumbing callouts are due to burst flexi hoses.
Why You Need a Licensed Plumber to Inspect Them
A burst flexi hose can happen without warning, which is why regular inspections are essential.
A licensed plumber can:
- Check the condition of each hose for rust, kinks, fraying, or wear
- Ensure proper installation and correct fittings
- Replace aging hoses with high-quality options (some with 10-year warranties)
- Check water pressure to avoid unnecessary stress on your plumbing
A quick 5-minute inspection could save you thousands in damage and downtime.
The Role of Isolation Valves
One of the best ways to reduce the impact of a burst flexi hose is by having isolation valves installed at every fixture.
Isolation valves allow you to shut off water instantly to a specific tap, basin, or toilet – without cutting off water to the whole house. This is especially helpful during a flexi hose failure, where every second counts.
Without isolators, you may be left scrambling to find the main shut-off valve, losing precious time (and water) in the process.
Protect Your Home
If it’s been a few years since your hoses were checked – or if you don’t even know where they are – it’s time to book a licensed plumber. Preventative maintenance is cheaper, faster, and far less stressful than dealing with a flooded home.
At Capital Plumbing, we offer:
- High-quality flexi hose replacements
- Installation of isolation valves
- Expert inspections for peace of mind
Call us today to book your flexi hose inspection and avoid a plumbing disaster tomorrow.
