Whether your lawn spans across several acres or you have a simple patio garden to manage, a garden hose is an essential piece of outdoor equipment.There are many uses for a garden hose, including watering grass and plants, rinsing off backyard toys, and washing your car.There are many options at most hardware and home improvement stores.If you want to purchase a garden hose that will fit your needs, take a few moments to consider all the options.
Step 1: For easy handling, choose a vinyl hose.
If you live in a mild climate and plan to use the hose to water your lawn or garden, vinyl is a good option.The hoses are easy to handle.They are a good choice for basic watering needs because they are less expensive than rubber or reinforced hoses.
Step 2: A rubber hose is more durable.
The rubber hoses are more expensive than the vinyl ones.They are better suited for extreme weather conditions and will last longer than a basic vinyl hose.
Step 3: A reinforced hose is a good choice for commercial purposes.
If you plan to use the hose commercially, or if your yard has a lot of equipment, choose a reinforced hose.One that is made up of several layers with a mesh covering on the outside can help protect against punctures.
Step 4: If you are using hot water, look for an industrial hose.
Industrial hoses are constructed of rubber.They can be used with extremely hot water.
Step 5: You can choose a sprinkler or soaker hose.
The hoses will leak through the holes into the garden or lawn.The sprinkler hoses are on the ground with a side that shoots water into the air.There are soaker hoses on the ground that allow water to trickle into the soil.
Step 6: Light watering needs can be met with an expanded hose.
When water is run through the hoses, they stretch out and shrink to a small size.They fit well in small spaces and are great for light watering.They need to be fully drained after every use.They might be more vulnerable to punctures and tears.
Step 7: There is a hose with antimicrobial protection.
The right environment for mold, yeast,bacteria, and fungus can be found in many garden hoses.Selecting a hose with antimicrobial protection is important if you plan to fill a swimming pool, let your kids run through the sprinkler, or drink from the hose.
Step 8: The length is determined by the size of your property.
There are over 100 feet (30 m) of garden hoses in length.If you have a small lot and need to water your grass or flowers, a short hose, such as one that is 25 feet (8.6 m), should work.If you have a lot of land, you need a longer hose, like 100 feet (30 m).Two garden hoses can be connected to reach a farther distance.
Step 9: The diameter can be determined by your pressure needs.
A hose with a 2 inch (1.3 cm) diameter will deliver about 9 gallons (34 L) of water per minute.It's enough for basic lawn and garden watering.17 gallons (64 L) of water per minute is what a 8 inch (1.6 cm) diameter hose will deliver.A 4 inch hose will deliver 23 gallons of water per minute.The bigger the diameter, the less pressure is lost.
Step 10: Look for cast brass.
It's important to have solid, crush-proof fittings for your garden hose.If you need to replace a damaged hose, choose cast brass instead of stamped brass.The hose is high quality.
Step 11: Pick a brass nozzle.
The way water is delivered can be changed by attaching a nozzle to the end of the hose.A strong stream of water can be produced by twisting the nozzle.If you want the most flexibility in your watering, choose an adjusted nozzle.A brass nozzle lasts longer than a plastic one.
Step 12: Before purchasing a hose, bend it to see if it works.
You can bend the hose in half while you are in the store.Most of the hoses that are advertised are not.If you test several hoses, you can find one that bends.
Step 13: You can store your hose on a reel.
It's a good idea to coil your hose on a reel.You can either mount the reels to the wall or put them on a cart.You will find reels at the same places as garden hoses.
Step 14: Before the first frost, drain the hose.
Before the cold weather hits, it is important to drain all the water from your hose.If you want to empty the hose, place one end on an elevated surface and the other on the ground.
Step 15: It's a good idea to bring your hose indoors during the winter.
Cold temperatures can cause the hose material to shrink.If you want to prevent this from happening, store your hose indoors during the winter.A garage or basement is a good place to keep the hose.