There’s nothing like having the power of your home in your own hands. When you have a leak that needs addressing or a clogged toilet that needs fixing, it’s both refreshing and a money-saver to roll up your sleeves and fix the issue yourself. However, this involves doing a little bit of research on the types of hose clamps and stainless steel tools you need to use. After all, the last thing you want to do is inadvertently make a problem worse when you’re just trying to be economical! Let’s take a look at hose clamps to help you get started.
What Are Hose Clamps?
A hose clamp, also known as a hose clip, is a device used to attach and seal a hose onto a fitting. These fittings are called barbs or nipples, created to ensure a tight fit so you don’t experience any leaks. People frequently use different types of hose clamps to address leaks and weak foundations in their home, the former of which can cause significant financial difficulties if not properly addressed. When even a simple leaky faucet can cost a homeowner hundreds of extra dollars per year, this is a skill you can always count on to help you out!
What Sizes Do They Come In?
One of the best things about the different types of hose clamps are the sizes they come in. There’s something for everything! Originally invented back in 1921 by a former Royal Navy Commander, these have fast become a staple of multiple repair and construction industries. Screw clamps are normally used for hoses 1/2 in diameter, while hose clamps are generally limited to moderating pressures — these can include those found in automotive and home applications. Overall, hose clamps come in a wide array of sizes to meet all the fastening needs of hoses.
What Should I Be Careful Of?
Being a do-it-yourself plumber involves being careful of what not to do. Stuck hoses, for example, should never be removed through cutting or slitting. This can leave a scratch on the barb, causing a leak that can cost you even more money in repairs. While leaks can be a financial nuisance, they can also be dangerous depending on what is being leaked. Screw hose clamps are widely popular for their ability to temporarily fix damaged pipes in emergency situations, which will be further explained down below.
What About Emergencies?
Got an emergency crack or leak? You may want to try a hose clamp. These are used as often (and sometimes more often) than heavy duty zip ties and are fast becoming a replacement for even the best duct tape. To ensure a good seal between a hose and a barb the barb needs to be free of nicks and scratches to be considered reliable — the different types of hose clamps include, but aren’t limited to, worm gear clamps, spring clamps and wire clamps. Knowing which ones is crucial to ensuring your home projects don’t become home disasters.
Should I Get Premium Hose Clamps?
Whether you get an adjustable hose clamp or different types of hose clamps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a do-it-yourself plumber. Remember when expanding a hose clamp you need to turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to eventually open the clamp completely. If you want to start simple, spring clamps use a strip of metal for easy opening and closing. Last, but not least, if you have a serious problem that needs addressing you should call a professional plumbing service. Feeling ready to take on the world? It’s all in the little things!