Washing machine hoses, before they burst

Washing machine hoses sit out of sight behind the machine. A failed hose is one of the leaks that can flood a house, along with a failed water heater and a burst pipe. The checks take half an hour once a year.

What you need

• A flashlight
• A towel and a shallow pan or bucket
• Replacement hoses, if the old ones are due

Steps

1. 1

   Pull the washer out and look behind it

   Slide the machine out far enough to see both hoses and the two valves on the wall. Unplug it first.

   5 min

2. 2

   Check the floor

   Pooling water by the washer can mean a supply hose is leaking.

   2 min

3. 3

   Check each hose along its length

   Look for cracks and wet spots. Replace any hose that's cracked or leaking right away.

   5 min

4. 4

   Check the age of the hoses

   Replace both hoses every five to seven years, even without cracks. When you fit new ones, write the date on them.

   3 min

5. 5

   Replace a worn hose

   Close both wall valves, set the pan under the connections, and unscrew the old hose at the valve and at the washer. Fit the new hose as its maker's instructions say, then open the valves slowly.

   10 min

6. 6

   Check the new connections

   Run a short cycle and look at each end of both hoses. If they're dry after the cycle, the job is done.

   5 min

7. 7

   Check the other appliance hoses

   Use the same yearly check, and the same five-to-seven-year replacement, on the hoses to the water heater, the dishwasher and the refrigerator's ice maker.

   10 min

Before you leave on a trip

Turn off the water supply to the washing machine before you go on vacation. Don't leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.

A moisture sensor on the floor behind the washer can warn you of a leak while you're out. Leaving the door open after a wash lets the drum dry out and helps prevent mold, especially on a front-loader.

If something goes wrong