When Should You Replace an Air Hose?

An air compressor hose, more commonly referred to simply as an air hose, is used for the transportation of compressed air between different points. They are utilised in a wide array of applications ranging from the filling of tyres to the supply of breathing air for both medical and recreational purposes, usually being made from EPDM, metal, rubber, PVC or silicone. Let’s learn when should you replace an air hose?

Common air hose problems

Air hose problems can be the result of a number of different issues including the likes of an air leak, broken part or oil leak. Insufficient air flow or pressurisation can appear in some instances, while in others the compressor may stop running or just not start up. 

Whatever the issue when an air hose fails to work as it should the resulting symptoms can be costly, time-consuming and very frustrating. The good news is there are ways to spot when an air hose may be on the verge of developing problems and indicate that it might be time to replace it.

Signs of wear and damage

An air hose that is visibly damaged is a guaranteed indication that it is time to seek a replacement. Air hoses are exposed to very high temperatures on a frequent basis, meaning that it will fail eventually at some point. Melted spots or even abrasions on an air hose are good signs that the air hose is about to fail and that it is time for it to be replaced. 

Another sign of wear in air hoses is an engine is idling too fast. In some cases the air hose may simply be loose and need to be tightened up, but if it appears to be damaged or worn then it will need to be replaced. 

There are a variety of other engine problems such as generally poor performance or continual stalling that may be the result of debris getting into the air hose because of leaks or openings. This debris may eventually be able to get into the engine itself, which would result in serious damage. An inspection of both the air hose and the engine will be needed to correct problems such as these. 

It is also a good idea to simply ensure that the Check Engine Light is on. The absence of such a light is a good indicator that there is a problem with your air hose. 

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Replacing an air hose

If you intend to replace the air hose yourself then you will to make sure that you do so safely. The first thing you should do is consult the owner’s manual, which will offer hose installation tips and also advise on the best type of replacement hose and how to treat it to ensure greater longevity. 

Take down the model number and brand name of the compressor to help find the right hose as well as how long the hose should be. Quick connect couplers make attaching and removing a hose easy, and all power should be turned off and all air expelled from the compressor and released in the hose prior to commencing replacement. 

When an air hose is damaged it is inadvisable to attempt to repair it and faulty air hoses should simply be replaced.