Picking the right hose can make a significant impact for individuals who have a garden of a particular size and wish to efficiently carry out watering tasks.
In the following lines, we have collected some general suggestions to give the right weight and receive the maximum from this support.
Here we had selected some of the best models of garden hoses that are listed below.
Things to Consider Before Buying Garden Hoses
Type
Compare the prices and performances of the many models available on the market, but the first choice you will have to make is what type of garden hose to buy.
If above all, you are looking for savings, you have no particular needs and are only interested in watering a few plants or a small vegetable garden, and you could also be satisfied with a simple PVC pipe; it is less resistant than the others but, on the other hand, it has a very low price.
The most popular and sold types of pipes are, however, those that provide several layers of PVC and an additional reinforcement that can be in mesh or mesh.
The former is more resistant and better withstand the high water pressure, making them ideal for those who need a very powerful jet. At the same time, they could be more rigid and less manageable than those with a knitted structure.
There is no shortage of models which, thanks for example to the use of resistant but light materials such as carbon, ensure the right mix of rigidity and easy handling.
Another choice that you will have to make beforehand is whether to rely on a traditional tube or on the extendable ones that have been found in all hardware stores for several years.
The latter, although not boasting the same performance as the others, is highly appreciated especially for the smaller size occupied and the greater convenience in transporting them.
When they are not used, they fold completely on themselves, ending up taking up very little space and only when the water begins to flow inside do they lengthen.
Performance
The difference between the best brand garden hoses and the others lies in the performance offered. The most efficient models do not tangle or fold. Furthermore, as we have already mentioned, the quality of the materials is fundamental.
Several layers of PVC and further reinforcement have at least two advantages: firstly, the pipe will better resist the inevitable impacts that it is destined to suffer.
Secondly, it will be able to withstand greater water pressure – expressed in bars – which can be useful not so much for those who water the garden as for those who want to clean the car, motorbike, external floor or work tools and for those who want to connect it to a pressure washer.
Furthermore, a tube made of quality materials can be left outdoors in any weather condition because it can withstand even extreme temperatures and not to be damaged by UV rays.
When the water does not come out completely, the tube is subject to the formation of algae inside unless you choose a model with a coating that prevents it from depositing.
Endowment
The wide range of accessories supplied with a garden hose can represent an important advantage. Models with universal adapters and hose connectors included, for example, can also be used with pressure washers.
In particular, the fittings with the Aqua Stop system are more practical because they allow you to change the sprinkler without closing the tap. The best are those in steel, not in plastic, because they do not ruin and block any water leaks more effectively.
The most appreciated accessory, however, is the dispensing gun which, generally, has multiple jets and, therefore, is better suited to various needs, such as washing the car or watering the plants.
High Flexibility and Resistance
The tube we are talking about belongs to the Comfort FLEX line which, as the name implies, stands out for its high flexibility and consequent ease of use.
It is made starting from a high-quality spiral mesh, free of heavy metals, which prevents it from deforming, bending or kinking, keeping its shape intact even when exposed to summer temperatures and direct sun.
The spiral mesh is then covered with absolutely phthalate-free plastic and resistant to UV rays and bad weather; this allows it to provide effective protection against external agents and wear and tear, adding to its ease of use, also high durability.
How to Use a Garden Hose?
Aim for Roller Shutters
Having a tube that favours versatility can solve problems related to good instrument manoeuvrability. Bet on a roll-up model, so you don’t try too hard once you are done.
Connect the Tube Well
Once the package has been opened, it is good practice to arrange the tube and check that the attachment and closure are stable and properly closed. Once the correct tightening has been checked, the knob for the water outlet can be turned.
Do Not Leave the Tube in The Sun
Prolonged exposure of pipes made of PVC is not a recommended practice for the respect and good sealing of the pump.
Over time, the sun’s rays and bad weather fade the tube and facilitate the proliferation of bacteria and mould that can damage the structure of the substrate itself.
Try Different Hooks
For a watering that best suits different types of plants, there are dispensing guns that vary in flow rate and type of jet.
Understand the different functionalities in the field well, to adapt them to the plants with the most resistant stem and the most delicate flowers.
Do Not Step on The Tube
During the washing operations, try not to step on or wrap the tube around areas that could obstruct or reduce the correct passage of water.
Not paying particular attention to these aspects could ruin the structure and create damage to the hose connection with the water intake.
Check the Flow Rate
Not all hoses can withstand the same pressure. Check the value of the corresponding bars in the product sheet.
Otherwise, there may be a sudden breakage of the object or difficulty in controlling the flow of water supplied.
Do Not Pull on The Tube
There are models on the market that occupies a confined space and which, as water passes, increase length and diameter, thus saving precious space for those who want the smallest footprint. Do not force the hose too much, especially if it is not part of this category.
Use the Object Consciously
The choice of a product of this type was born to provide concrete help in watering plants and other materials that make up a garden.
Use in other contexts is not recommended, especially in the presence of slippery surfaces or which can become so once wet.
Turn Off the Water
Having this tool at your disposal does not exempt you from behavior and sparing use of water. Water as much as necessary, remembering to close the jet once the initiation is over.