Here are some general guidelines for how often stainless steel flexible hose should be checked:
Daily visual inspection:
Look for any visible damage, cracks, cuts or abrasions on the exterior of the hose. Check that fittings are secure.
Monthly inspection:
Perform a more thorough visual inspection. Check the inner liner as well for any tears, bulges or pending cracks. Check dates and inspect for expiration of any regularly scheduled replacement/inspection periods.
Annual inspection:
At minimum, hoses should receive a full annual inspection. Check all metal and braided layers for signs of corrosion, abrasion or fraying. Flex the hose and check for any loss of flexibility that could indicate internal damage.
Every 3-5 years:
Most flexible hoses have a service life of 3-5 years with regular use depending on application and environment. Replace after this period even if no visible issues are found yet.
Immediately replace:
If any damage or deterioration is discovered at any inspection point, the hose should be replaced immediately to avoid risk of failure.
High vibration applications:
Hoses subject to machining or other severe vibration may require more frequent checks, perhaps monthly or quarterly depending on conditions.
Environment:
Hoses used in corrosive, chemical or extreme temperature environments may need to be checked even more often.
Following these general guidelines helps catch any potential hose failures before they occur. Early replacement is warranted for safety and to avoid unexpected downtime from hose failures. Frequent inspections can help extend hose life too.