When Getting Ready to Buy a Garden Hose, Here's What You Need to Know

Gardening season is the perfect time to learn the basics of garden hose fitting sizes. If you know what you need before you make the purchase, you'll be able to identify and purchase the right hose for your garden. Keep reading to understand the size fitting for garden hoses and the questions you should be asking before you make any purchase.

What Is the Standard Garden Hose Connector Size?

The standard connector size for garden hoses is inch in diameter. It's important to remember that this is the diameter and not the circumference. This size is the most common fitting size for faucets and hoses in the United States.

If you're unsure about the connector size needed for your hose, the best thing to do is to measure the thread of the faucet. To measure the size of the fitting, you'll need a thread measurement gauge, which is easily found at any hardware store. You'll essentially have to measure the thread of the faucet through the hose connection.

Why Do Different Sized Garden Hoses Matter?

Garden hose sizes are all about water flow, which is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). A hose that is too small in diameter won't be able to carry enough water from the faucet to where you need it to go. On the flipside, if the hose is too large, then you'll be wasting water without realizing it.

The inch connector size is usually the perfect size for most homeowners and gardeners in the United States. This will work for most washing needs as long as the water pressure in the home is above 20 pounds per square inch (PSI). Lower PSI and you'll need a inch hose.

What Types of Hoses Are Available?

There are a few different types of materials used for garden hoses and they each have their own benefits. Rubber hoses are the most flexible but may not hold up well in cold weather. Vinyl materials are a bit cheaper but may kink easily. Then you have hoses made from a material called polyurethane, which is great for cold weather use but also more expensive.

Do I Need a Water Pressure Regulator?

It's a good idea to buy a water-pressure regulator for your garden hose. If the pressure of the water is too high, it could cause damage to the hose and to the faucet as well. A water-pressure regulator will help ensure that the water pressure is maintained and won't put too much strain on your hose or faucet.

Are Garden Hoses Universal?

No, garden hoses are not universal and they come in a variety of sizes, materials, and connecting fittings. It's important to know exactly what size you need before making a purchase.

Final Word

Knowing what size fitting is a garden hose is just the start of purchasing the right garden hose for your needs. It's important to consider the material, the PSI of your water pressure, and if you need a water pressure regulator. Then you can be sure you're purchasing the right hose for your gardening needs.