Most homeowners don't think about their washing machine hoses after they are first installed. Unfortunately these inconspicuous plumbing components flood a lot of houses. I usually don't have to install these because most people can handle this one on their own, but when I do, I like to give my customers a quick rundown of their choices.

Good - This is the standard washing machine hose made of rubber. They are relatively inexpensive to buy and easy to find. If your washing machine is inside the house these hoses are not recommended because they are the most likely to burst.

Better - A stainless steel braided hose is the minimum recommended for indoor use. They are middle of the road when it comes to price but the added safety is really worth it.

Best - For a few more dollars you can have additional peace of mind using auto-shutoff hoses. These are also stainless steel braided hoses that can be used indoors. They have a shut off mechanism at one end as an added feature. If the hose burst the connector can sense the pressure change and stops the flow of water.

Reminder: washing machine hoses should be replaced about every 5 years.