Replacing A Water Supply Hose

Sink fixtures and toilets receive their water supply through a hose that is attached to the water line or shutoff valve. The water supply hose is made of braided steel or plastic tubing and has a fitting at either end. Over time, the hose can develop cracks in its body or a loosening of the fittings. Either situation can lead to the hose leaking water. If the hose is not replaced, the leak can become worse and cause a fair amount of damage to your home. You can replace a worn water supply hose in just a few minutes and with the use of a common household tool.


Tools Of The Trade
Old towel
Adjustable wrench
Teflon tape
Water supply hose
Paper towel

Step 1:
Turn the handle or the knob on the shutoff valve completely clockwise to shut off the water supply. If there is no individual shutoff associated with the water supply hose being replaced, or if the shutoff is stuck, shut off the main water valve for the home. Turn on the faucet or flush the toilet to remove residual water from the hose being replaced.

Step 2:
Place an old towel under the hose to catch any residual water that may drip.

Step 3:
Unfasten the fittings at both ends of the water supply hose by turning them counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench. Remove the fittings by hand once they are loose enough to do so. Dispose of the hose.

Step 4:
Wrap the threads to which the hose fittings attach with Teflon tape. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads to help seal the connections.

Step 5:
Fasten the fittings on both ends by hand to ensure they don't cross-thread. Tighten the fittings with the adjustable wrench clockwise until they are snug.

Step 6:
Restore the water supply and wipe the hose and fittings dry with a paper towel. Check for drips coming from the fittings. Tighten the fittings an eighth of a turn at a time if you notice drips. Place a paper towel under the hose and check it for the next day to ensure there are no intermittent drips.