HydroStopper FAQ.

The rubber hoses for your washing machine are not designed to operate under constant pressure. Eventually they could rupture and cause serious flooding in your house. You could shut off the water every time you finish using the washing machine, but often the handles are difficult to reach.

How and why do the washing machine hoses fail?

Consumer grade inserts are rolled and stamped from thin sheets of copper alloy. In time, water flow hones them to a fine edge. When the hose bends at the coupling, this sharp edge is forced into the interior wall. In hose jargon, this is known as "razoring." Hose failures are becoming more frequent because new construction uses a "greybox" for the plumbing connection. Here, the washer hose is bent at a ninety degree angle to the coupling. This forces the sharp edge into the hose wall. As the hose pulses up and down with each fill cycle, the insert slowly cuts through the rubber.

I installed steel braided hoses; do I still need the HydroStopper?

Yes, the steel braided hoses have reduced the problem of razoring, but have created a worse problem. In order to secure the rubber tube and the steel braid to the swivel, these manufacturers must use a very aggressive crimp and a relatively thin rubber tube. When the hoses are bent and flexed, they fail at the crimp point.

How long do washing machine hoses last?

The useful service life of a consumer grade hose is five to seven years.

How does it work?

The HydroStopper is a patented device, which closes the flow of water to the washing machine, when it detects any water underneath the washing machine, from either a leak in one of the hoses, or the washing machine.

Where do I install the HydroStopper?

The HydroStopper is mounted between the faucet and the hose, and has a sensor placed on the floor. As soon as water reaches the sensor, the HydroStopper closes the water supply.

What can happen if I don’t have a HydroStopper installed with my washing machine?

When a washing machine hose burst, or the washing machine overflows, the water will keep flowing, and destroy floors, walls etc. As a reference, according to the Insurance industry, broken washing machine hoses are the second leading cause of household damage in the United States. They are responsible for approximately $150 million in water damage each year.

Do insurance companies give a premium discount for an installed HydroStopper?

At this time it's hit and miss, so check with your insurance agent and if they don't — ask why! They know what a burst washing machine hose can do to your home.

Is the HydroStopper covered by a warranty?

Yes.

What does this warranty cover?

If this product should prove defective in workmanship or material during the period in which it is owned by the purchaser, it may be returned to FlowStop, Inc. for repair or replacement without charge. Damage caused by accident, misuse, or abuse is not covered by this warranty. This warranty covers parts, but does not cover any costs incurred in removal, shipping, or reinstallation of the product, nor does it cover any incidental or consequential damages.

How long does coverage last?

FlowStop, Inc. guarantees the HydroStopper against failure or defects for as long as the purchaser or end user owns it.

What is the power source (amps/volts etc.)?

The HydroStopper is powered by 1 AA Battery.

Can it be hard wired?

No, because the power source is contained in the HydroStopper

Can I use it with 208/240 - 15 amp Miele washer?

Yes, it can be used with any washer.

If the unit does not fit, or it does not meet with my satisfaction, can I return for a refund?

Yes, full refund, less shipping, if you are not 100% satisfied.

Do you suggest testing the valve at some interval?

Yes.

How can I test the HydroStopper?

To test the Hydrostopper: Place the sensor in a small amount of water; the valve will jump to position B. The water supply is shut off. Replace the sensor on the floor, and push the valve back to position A. We recommend doing this test every half year.

Can the HydroStopper be installed in my home security system?

HydroStopper does not have "dry" contacts for inclusion in a home security panel. The HydroStopper is unlike an alarm, in that it takes action and closes the water supply. Therefore the HydroStopper is a good addition to the home security and protection system.

Are the valves normally closed (fail safe)?

No, the valves are normally open. They only close, when the sensor on the floor detects water.

Is it entirely battery operated? How many batteries / what size?

Yes, the HydroStopper is powered by 1 AA Battery.

What is the battery life?

To ensure your Hydrostopper is always ready for operation, replace the AA battery every 3 – 4 years. As the Hydrostopper only needs a current of 0.45 Amps for 0.1 seconds in case of activation and no measurable currents are used otherwise, you can really rely on the battery.

What is the leak sensor?

The leak sensor completes the electrical circuit and causes the HydroStopper to close.

Is there any audible alarm?

The HydroStopper is unlike an alarm, in that it takes action and closes the water supply. Therefore the HydroStopper is a good addition to a home security and protection system.

What's the price?

The price is $75.- for a set, one each for the cold water, and one for the hot water side. Shipping is $5.- Total cost $80.- if ordered though our website.

Can I order any time, day or night?

Yes, through our website.

How do I pay for it?

We have partnered with Pay Pal; therefore you can pay for the HydroStopper with any major credit card, or your Pay Pal account.

Is it safe to use PayPal?

When you pay with PayPal, your credit card and bank numbers are never seen by the seller. Your financial information stays safe. Plus, you’re protected 100% against unauthorized payments sent from your account.

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