What a hard lesson to learn. Most manufacturer’s of washing machine hoses recommend replacing both hoses every five years. Most people, including myself, have never replaced a hose. Further more, I have never turned off the water when I go on vacation either. What an important lesson to learn. Thanks for the tip. When you plan to leave for an extended period of time, it is a good idea to turnoff the water to your washing machine at the water valves located behind the washer. Also, do not forget to turn off the water to your refrigerator ice machine (by lifting the ice sensor inside the freezer) and the water to your water heater (located on the pipe on top of the heater). I have heard similar stories about water heaters bursting while on vacation. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.