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ck21084 · 06-22-2010, 02:55 PM

Has any one considered using braided stainless hoses for there fresh water supply through out the RV? I have found a source for this that is vinyl coated stainless braid for $.75 per foot. I think that I would need around 100ft of this but if I measure twice cut once I could order the pre made hoses and just connect them together with brass fittings. I don't think I would ever have an issue with this system as they are rated to 2600psi and because they flex very well will be resistant to vibration and maybe even freezing.??

Jammer · 06-22-2010, 02:59 PM

They're usually rubber on the inside, which will deteriorate with the passage of years. Why not use PEX?

bobfowler · 06-22-2010, 03:01 PM

That's exactly what I did. Braided stainless steel throughout. The only copper I have is the distribution manifolds I made up. We couldn't be happier...

**moosetags** · 06-22-2010, 03:03 PM

You would also need to make sure that these hoses are designed for potable water use.

Brian

vswingfield · 06-22-2010, 03:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ck21084

... will be resistant to vibration ...

You should also be aware that the braided stainless steel lines can be very abrasive to anything they rub against. The stainless strands are very hard and can act like a file if not well secured.

They can also have individual broken strands that are very small (and hard to see) protruding outward from the hose like tiny needles.

I learned this handling oil lines from engine blocks to turbochargers. Usually involved profanity at the time.

TomW · 06-22-2010, 03:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ck21084

... they are rated to 2600psi and because they flex very well will be resistant to vibration and maybe even freezing.??

Frozen water will ultimately win. Maybe not immediately, but eventually.

Braided SS hoses will certainly look really cool, but is the additional cost really worth it? With the exception on an 18-inch hookup line to the toilet, my Airstream's fresh water supply system is all copper, and the looks of it makes me smile every time an access door is open.

In seven years, no one has ever asked to see the plumbing, and I have never made anyone look at it.

If you want SS hoses then go for it. Be forewarned that, other than you, there may not be an appreciative audience.

Tom

Wabbiteer · 06-22-2010, 09:25 PM

Just a story to point out there are varying degrees of "braided stainless steel" hose...

My brother in his new house with new appliances, etc. had (cheap?) stainless hose from a big box store burst anyway - washer connection went two hours after they returned from vacation, then the midnight call to clean up people who stormed the house and tore out carpet, padding and moldings & set monster fans a going to save the drywall.

If you are lucky enough to get true aircraft or racing quality hose wholesale or at cost go for it - but counting on an unknown wire braid and liner hose to perform like a higher price hose may not work out like we want it to..