How often should you replace washing machine hoses?

Short answer

Replace the washing machine hoses every 3 to 5 years. If the hoses are plain rubber, make it every 3 years, or better, replace them now with braided stainless steel hoses and move to the longer end of the range. The hoses are the pair that connect the hot and cold valves on the wall to the back of the machine. New braided ones cost $20 to $40 for the pair, and swapping them takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Why it matters

The supply hoses sit under full house pressure every minute of every day, not just while the machine runs. Rubber hardens with age and heat, and the stress of the water pressure finds the weak spot. A rubber hose doesn't leak a little first. It bursts, and a burst hose puts out gallons a minute until someone shuts the valve. If it happens while you're at work or asleep, that's a flooded laundry room, the hallway beside it, and whatever's below.

Washing machine hoses are among the most common causes of home water damage claims, and the whole fix is a part that costs less than dinner. A braided stainless steel hose has a rubber liner inside a woven metal jacket, which stops it from swelling and bursting. Even braided hoses age at the fittings, which is why they get replaced on a schedule rather than when they fail.

When to do it more often

Rubber hoses: every 3 years, and a swap to braided stainless steel at the first chance.
Any hose that shows a bulge, a crack, or rust at the fitting: now, whatever its age.
A washing machine in an upstairs laundry room, where a burst floods the floor below: lean toward the short end of the range, because the stakes are higher.
A machine that's been moved: check the hoses, since bending and pulling stresses the fittings.

What you need

Pliers, to loosen a fitting that's too tight for hand strength
A bucket, to catch the water left in the old hoses
A towel for the floor
A pair of braided stainless steel washing machine hoses in the right length

Steps at a glance

Turn off both supply valves on the wall behind the machine.
Run the machine on a fill cycle for a moment to release the pressure in the hoses, then stop it.
Unscrew the hoses from the valves and from the machine, with the bucket under each fitting.
Check the rubber washers in the new hoses' fittings and screw them onto the machine by hand, then snug them with the pliers.
Connect the other ends to the valves, matching hot to hot and cold to cold.
Open the valves slowly and watch every fitting for drips.
Write the date on a piece of tape on one hose.

You're done when both valves are open and every fitting stays dry through a full wash cycle.

Signs it's overdue

Bulges or cracks in the hose, which means the rubber is giving way.
Rust at the fittings, where water has been seeping.
Drips at either end, even small ones.
Hoses older than 5 years, or of unknown age in a house you've moved into.

DIY or pro

This is an easy job. The fittings are ordinary hose threads, and the only trick is getting them snug without crushing the washer. Hand tight plus a quarter turn with the pliers is enough. If a fitting drips, tighten it a little more rather than reaching for tape or sealant, which these fittings don't need.

A plumber charges $100 to $200 to swap the hoses, which is worth it only if the valves on the wall are stuck or leaking too, since those need a plumber anyway. While the hoses are off, work the valves closed and open a few times. A valve that won't turn is the next thing to replace.

FAQ

How long do washing machine hoses last?

Braided stainless steel hoses go 3 to 5 years. Rubber hoses should be replaced every 3 years, or sooner if they show any bulge or crack.

Are braided washing machine hoses worth it?

Yes. The metal jacket stops the rubber liner from swelling and bursting, and they cost only a little more than rubber.

Should I turn off the washing machine valves when I'm not using it?

If the valves turn easily, closing them between loads takes the pressure off the hoses entirely. It's a good habit before a trip.

What size washing machine hoses do I need?

Standard hoses fit standard valves and machines. Measure the length you need so the hoses reach without being stretched or kinked.