PVC hoses are widely used for fluid transfer, but heat causes them to degrade over time. Knowing the exact temperature that triggers degradation helps users protect their PVC hoses and avoid failures. Degradation doesn’t happen suddenly—it starts at a specific temperature and worsens as heat rises.
The Critical Temperature: PVC Hose Starts to Degrade at 140℉
Most standard PVC hoses start to degrade when temperatures reach 140℉ (60℃). At this point, the PVC material begins to soften. You may notice the hose feels more flexible than usual, or it sags under its own weight. This softening is the first sign of degradation—it weakens the hose’s structure and makes it prone to kinks. Even short-term exposure to 140℉ can speed up long-term wear on PVC hoses.
How Degradation Worsens Above 140℉
As temperatures climb above 140℉, PVC hose degradation accelerates. At 160℉ (71℃), the hose loses significant structural strength. It may stretch, crack, or develop leaks when under pressure. By 200℉ (93℃), severe degradation occurs—PVC hoses can melt or burst if they carry fluids at this temperature. For example, a PVC hose near a hot engine or industrial heater may degrade completely in hours at 180℉.
Factors That Speed Up PVC Hose Degradation
Two key factors worsen heat-related degradation of PVC hoses. First, prolonged exposure: even 140℉ can break down a PVC hose over weeks of continuous use. Second, pressure: a pressurized PVC hose degrades faster at high temperatures than an unpressurized one. Chemicals in the fluid (like oils or solvents) also increase degradation speed when combined with heat.