Can You Use a Washing Machine Hose On a Water Heater?

Sometimes your budget doesn’t just accommodate what you urgently need, and you’ll find a similar item available in the house.

In this light, if your water heater hose is bad, you may wonder, can you use a washing machine hose on a water heater?

In most cases, you can use a washing machine hose on a water heater, but it is not advisable to do so because of the temperature and pressure threshold of the hose. 

Read on to learn how to use a washing machine hose on a water heater.

Table of Contents

Can You Use a Washing Machine Hose On A Water Heater?

You can use a washing machine hose on a water heater by simply hooking it up to your water heater. However, it is not recommended.

Improvising unavailable items with the ones that serve the same function is common in homes and workplaces.

A washing machine hose is made of materials that cannot withstand a water heater’s high temperature and pressure, but they can be handy when there’s no better option.

When using a washing machine hose on a water heater, regularly check for a slight change in color and shape, as sometimes, it indicates the hose is expanding.

Also, when the hose has exceeded its expansion limit, it can wear and tear, but regularly checking and replacing it can prevent it from bursting.

Can You Use A Flexible Hose On A Water Heater?

There are many types of hoses you can use on your water heater and a flexible hose is one of them. However, you have to keep some important things in mind like:

Pressure/Temperature Limit

Ensure that the type of hose you choose to use has the threshold for the water temperature and pressure.

Proper Installation

Your water heater uses electricity, and any leakage from the hose can expose you to the risk of electrocution if the hose is not properly installed. It is advisable to have a professional plumber do the installation to avoid any errors.

Length of The Hose

Ensure that the hose is long enough to reach the faucet or valve. If you have to pull the hose to reach the faucet, it’s probably not the right length.

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Can You Hook A Hose Up to Your Water Heater?

Hooking a hose up to your water heater is possible, but it is not advisable.

When you hook the hose, the water from the heater is hotter and may come with a higher pressure than the water coming out of the faucet, creating an unbalanced water flow that can exert pressure on either the hose or the faucet.

Also, you won’t have any hot water once you turn off the water heater, or it runs out of hot water until you turn it back on or it refills. 

If you constantly use hot water, hooking up a hose on your water heater may not be a favorable experience.

Do You Need A Special Hose For Hot Water?

Different hoses serve different purposes, and you can often use one instead of another. It is the same for hot water. You need a special hose for hot water.

However, you must ensure that the hose you choose is solid to withstand the heat and pressure without melting or bursting. 

Many hoses are designed to withstand certain temperatures and change color and shape once exposed to higher temperatures.

If your house is not specifically designed for hot water, regularly check that the water flowing through it doesn’t exceed the maximum recommended temperature or pressure. Also, unhook your hose from the faucet when not using it.

Types of Hose For Draining Water Heater

If you want to drain your water heater, get a drain hose. There are different types of drain hoses. The type of hose you choose depends on the make and model of your water heater.

So before you purchase a drain hose, check for the manufacturer’s instructions or direct contact to know the details of your water heater.

Also, follow the instructions on how to install the hose according to the manufacturer’s guide.

FAQS

Can You Use A Washing Machine Hose For Drinking Water?

You cannot use a washing machine hose for drinking water. Washing machine hoses are made with materials that aren’t safe for human consumption. Additionally, there might be mold and mildew in the hose that can cause illness.

Additionally, the water pressure from the washing machine is higher than what is safe for humans. Consider several safer alternatives if you’re looking for clean drinking water. Some include:

  • Bottled water from grocery stores
  • Boiling tap water and filtering it for drinking
  • At-home filtering systems and devices to filter impurities from sink water.
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These options are safer and considerably cheaper.

Do Washing Machine Hoses Have Filters?

Washing machine hoses come with filters that are not the regular type you’d think of. The filters are designed to sieve out hair particles, lint, and other debris that can block the drains if they find their way into them.

The filters are removed and cleaned regularly to prevent clogging that can lead to decreased efficiency, blocked drains, and foul smells in the washing machine. 

The filters work perfectly with the washing machine. Still, they may be unfit for the water heater because they’re usually made of thin strips of plastic that can melt or break easily under extreme temperatures and pressure.

Do Washing Machines Come With A Drain Hose?

All newer models of washing machines come with a drain hose. You can expel dirty water from the washing machine through the drain hose.

Some older models only sometimes come with a drain hose and may require a special method of draining dirty water from the washing machine. 

To know the accessories that come with your washing machine, consult the user manual or the manufacturer for clarity.

Can A Garden Hose Handle Hot Water?

Yes, garden hoses can withstand temperatures up to 140-190°F

Does A Water Heater Need A Drain Hose?

Yes, the water heater needs a drain hose.

Should A Washing Machine Be Plumbed Into Hot Water?

No, do not plumb a washing machine into hot water.

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Conclusion

I hope this article has given in-depth knowledge to answer the question, “can you use a washing machine hose on a water heater.”

So, Suppose you find yourself in a position where you wonder. In that case, can I use a washing machine hose on a water heater, you have every reason to do so long as you remember that the hose is not originally designed for the temperature of the water heater.

Therefore, you should replace it after a while to avoid any wear or tear that can cause hot water spillage.

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