How often do you guys replace RIMS/HERMS hoses?

[moonbrew]

I run a very basic HERMS through a 10 GAL Rubbrmaid cooler MLT by recirculating through a copper coil submerged in a cooking steamer/fryer full of water. It's low rent, but it effectively maintains temps +/- 1 degree once I get it set.

My question is how often do you RIMS/HERMS folks replace you're circulation hoses?

The reason I'm asking is that I've noticed over time that along with my hoses turning a malty brown color I've noticed a slight yellow brown tint in the water as I circulate the system to heat up my strike water. I know that it is inevitable that I get that brewery smell out of my equipment and discolored hoses with use, but to the extent that imparts color in my water bothers me. This was especially bad after mash hopping a few batches ago. The hop resins seemed to stick to everything.

I do pre-rinse the whole thing with a few gallons of hot water prior to heating strike water but that doesn't seem to help. I also recirculate with PBW for a half hour and soak every part of the system after each batch. I wouldn't know what else to do to get it any cleaner, so I don't think that is a problem.

Are braided hi-temp vinyl hoses only good for about a dozen batches or so before they get build up inside that cant be cleaned?
Or am I just being my picky self.

I replace my cool side siphon hoses quite often for peace of mind, but I thought the hot side stuff was different.

 

[samc]

My silicone hoses don't have any issues like that. You can soak them in Oxyclean, boil them, etc.

Costs more but they should last long enough to make it pay.

 

[moonbrew]

Those are the white, more rigid type, right?

Hey, that rhymes...