Given the wide diversity of hydraulic hoses in terms of variety, structures, and usage conditions, the service life of pressure washer hoses hinges not only on their inherent quality but also on proper utilization and maintenance. In other words, even if a product is of top-notch quality, incorrect use and maintenance practices can severely compromise its quality and lifespan. Worse still, it could potentially lead to serious accidents, resulting in property losses. Here are some essential precautions to bear in mind:
Pressure washer hose assemblies must be strictly used to transport the materials they are designed for. Using them for other substances will inevitably lead to a reduction in their service life or even render them ineffective.
The length of the hose needs to be used correctly. Under high pressure, the length of the hose can vary by (-4% – +2%), and there is also length change caused by mechanical movement. Understanding and accounting for these changes is crucial to prevent overstretching or underutilizing the hose.
The working pressure should never exceed the designed limit
Exceeding this threshold puts excessive stress on the hose, increasing the risk of failure.
Under normal circumstances, the temperature of the medium being conveyed by the washer hose should stay within the range of -40°C to +120°C. Temperatures outside this range can cause the hose material to degrade, shortening its service life.
Avoid using the hose with a bending radius smaller than what it is designed for. Bending or kinking near the pipe joint should be prevented as it can impede hydraulic transmission and material delivery, and may even damage the hose assembly.
The pressure washer hose should never be used when twisted. A twisted state can disrupt the flow of the medium and also weaken the structural integrity of the hose.
Hydraulic hose assemblies should be handled with the utmost care. They should not be dragged across sharp or rough surfaces as this can cause abrasions and cuts, nor should they be bent or flattened, which can deform the hose and affect its performance.
Pressure washer hoses should be kept clean at all times
The inside should be rinsed regularly (especially for acid pipes, spray pipes, and mortar pipes). This helps prevent foreign objects from entering the lumen, which could obstruct fluid delivery and potentially damage the device.
For hydraulic hose assemblies that have surpassed their service or storage periods, they must undergo testing and identification before being reused. This ensures that they are still fit for purpose and safe to use.