We don’t know why exactly, but some men just really love hose clamps. Actually, scratch that, we do know why. It’s because hose clamps are freakin’ awesome. What’s more manly and American than getting a hard job done right? Of course, their inventor Lumley Robinson might disagree. This British Royal Navy Commander invented these handy devices almost 100 years ago in 1921.
What we’re trying to say is simply this — we love hose clamps, from stainless steel hose clamp to automotive hose clamps. Which is why it’s difficult for us to admit this, but your trusty stainless steel hose clamps aren’t always the right tool for the job. We know they can be useful for strapping, mounting, positioning, securing, and, of course, clamping. But sometimes, breaking out your most trusted clamps would be a big mistake.
So when should you put down the hose clamp?
1. Got Broken Pipes?
Hose clamps are probably most often used by the average DIY dad or mom to fix a damaged pipe in a hurry. And that’s exactly right. The best hose clamps will even keep their seal for years if necessary. But remember, for long-term plumbing needs, that clamp isn’t going to be able to do the job. Of course, that’s not your hose clamp’s fault. If your pipes are broken, then there’s only one tool known to man that will repair the problem for good — new pipes.
2. Wrong Size
Putting the wrong size hose clamp on a hose or pipe could end in disaster. And since these tools are so often used in emergency plumbing, automotive repairs, and gas pipes, a loose seal can have serious consequences. Remember: when selecting hose clamp sizes, you want to measure the outside diameter of the item you are clamping. There are worm drive hose clamps that can be daisy chained together to make longer seals, but this won’t work with your average stainless steel hose clamp. If you aren’t sure if a clamp is the right size, or if it seems too loose OR too tight, you could be working with the wrong size.
3. When In Doubt, Cut It Out
Even placing a clamp on the pipes under your sink can be a high stakes situation. Ever paid for water damage or mold removal? If you aren’t certain you know what you’re doing, don’t hesitate to call in a professional plumber. Similarly, if you aren’t sure how to apply radiator hose clamps, call a mechanic.
4. Stainless Steel Hose Clamps Can Shred Silicon Hoses
If you’re working with soft-material hoses, like silicone hoses, then standards stainless steel hose clamps can damage the hose itself. Over time, that can cause the hose tear and break down, destroying the seal for good, often to disastrous effect.
