Don’t Flush Your Problems Down the Drain Tips on DIY Plumbing
Hose clamps are devices generally used to attach a hose onto a fitting, but they are often used as a more permanent substitute for duct tape or zip ties.
What Should I Know About Hose Clamps?
There are multiple types of hose clamps, but they are all designed to do the same thing. Hose clamps can come in a variety of shapes, material, and sizes to complete any specific project you have in mind. For example, automotive hose clamps are generally used to ensure there are no fluid leaks on a vehicle, while some smaller hose clamps can be daisy chained to create a larger clamp. Although you can purchase an adjustable hose clamp, they are designed for moderate amounts of pressure, so it is important to make sure you know what you intend to use your hose clamp for. Even stainless steel hose clamps will only hold so much pressure, so be sure to avoid leaks by buying the appropriate size clamp.
How Can I Use a Hose Clamp?
Now you might be asking yourself, “Why would I ever use a hose clamp?” but you may be surprised. If your car is leaking any type of fluid, or a pipe in your sink bursts, before you call the plumber, you can put a hose clamp on as a temporary fix. To use a hose clamp, you must first make sure to measure the outside diameter (O.D.) of the hose you wish to clamp. Most screw clamps are used for hoses that are half an inch or larger in diameter, but other adjustable hose clamps, such as automotive hose clamps, are stronger and can be used for some larger hoses. Screw clamps are also most commonly used to temporarily fix damaged pipes. So if you ever find yourself waiting for a plumber while your kitchen fills with water, you might want to invest in a screw clamp or two.
Hose Clamps: The Ultimate Quick Fix Tool
So you may have had some questions about what exactly a hose clamp is, or how it can help in the day to day, and answers have hopefully been provided. Hose clamps are an extremely versatile tool used to stop leaks, hold pipe together, and even be used as zip ties. So next time you find yourself with a leaky pipe, grab a hose clamp and then call the plumber.