I Drove Over My Pressure Washer Hose! Do I Have To Replace It?

Oops!

Despite our best efforts to protect our equipment, accidents happen. Pressure washer hoses are designed to handle being drug across rough surfaces - over concrete, cubs, around the corners of buildings… but they aren't designed to handle the weight of a vehicle.

So, if a car or truck runs over your hose, do you have to replace it?

It depends on the damage done and the size/weight of the vehicle. You’ll need to inspect the hose for any signs of damage. Here's what to look for:

• Distortion: The internal metal braiding is tough, but can get crushed with enough weight. Check for flat spots or crushed areas, especially if the hose was run over by a heavier vehicle like a semi or forklift. A flat spot means the integrity of the braid is compromised and you should consider replacing it.
• Exposed Braiding: If you can see the wire braiding at all, from a worn coating or a broken braid piercing through the outer jacket, it's time to replace the hose. The braiding protects the inner tube, and if it’s exposed, the hose is vulnerable to bursting.
• Bulges: A bulge in the hose means that the wire braiding has most likely failed, and the inner tube is starting to bulge out. This is a serious weakness and requires immediate replacement.

Regularly inspecting the hose for these issues is important to avoid safety risks, but especially so if the weight of a vehicle is involved. We suggest using electrical tape to mark the affected area where it was run over, making it easier to monitor that specific point closely.

If in doubt, its always a good idea to replace the hose. Its possible to have it repaired, but read this article to learn why it's not recommended, and why many shops are unwilling to take on the liability of a hose repair (Hint: the cost savings aren't worth risking potential medical bills!)

If you're on the fence about the extent of the damage, one of our dealer experts can help you make the right call. Use our dealer map to find your nearest expert and give them a call!