According to NFPA standards, what is the service life range for hoses?

• A. 5 to 15 years
• B. 10 to 25 years
• C. Minimum 10 years; maximum 20 years
• D. No specified limit

Answer: (C)

Hoses have a limited service life because materials degrade with time and use. NFPA standards require regular care, inspection, and testing, and they set a retirement window to balance safety with practicality. The minimum 10-year figure reflects that hoses should be considered potentially serviceable for at least a decade if they’re well maintained and pass inspections and tests. The maximum 20-year figure acknowledges that, after two decades, the risk of hidden failures rises even with testing, so replacement is recommended by that point. In practice, hoses may be retired earlier if inspections reveal cracks, stiffness, leaks, or other damage, but the 10–20 year range is the guideline for planning and replacement.