Question 1

How long can I expect a hose to last?

Accepted Answer

In a perfect world, a good garden hose should last from 5 to 10 years. However, this will depend on the quality of the hose you buy and how you store it. Some of the more inexpensive hoses will need to be replaced after 3 years or less.

Question 2

What's the best way to store a hose?

Accepted Answer

The best way to store a hose that is not in use is to wrap it around a hose reel or a hose rack. Try to keep the hose relatively loose and keep it out of direct sunlight. If you live in a region with harsh winters, you should ensure the hose is completely devoid of water and store it in the garage or garden shed.

Question 3

How can I prevent kinking and knotting?

Accepted Answer

The best way to prevent kinking and knotting of your garden hose is to wrap it around a hose reel when you are not using it. Hoses kink when they are not properly rolled or coiled but the main problems arise when the hose is just left on the ground in a heap.

Question 4

Do I need a garden hose nozzle for my hose?

Accepted Answer

Technically speaking, you don't need a garden hose nozzle for your hose. Most people have simply placed a finger over the end of the hose to create a spray. While this does work to a certain degree, it does not allow for accurate watering and you may get more water everywhere but where it's needed. A garden hose nozzle allows you to choose the type of spray for different plants and many also give you the option to turn the water flow off so you are not wasting water on your way back to the spigot.

Question 5

Is drinking water from a garden hose safe?

Accepted Answer

You haven't had a normal childhood unless you drank water from the garden hose. That being said, it's not a good idea to do this unless you have a garden hose that is certified as drinking water safe. Keep in mind that hoses are often left out in the sun and heat can result in toxins leaching from the materials directly into the water. You are much better off disconnecting the hose from the spigot and drinking from your hands.

Question 6

What does PSI mean on a garden hose?

Accepted Answer

PSI refers to "pounds per square inch" and this denotes how much pressure the hose can take before bursting. Most households have water pressure up to 80 PSI and it is recommended to have a garden hose with a PSI of 300 or more.

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