Hose Reel

Hose reels are used for utility and organizational purposes as well as to extend the life of a garden hose by reducing exposure to elements such as weather and temperatures. With the crank of a handle, the hose is wound around a spindle base and can be attached to an exterior faucet or stored during seasonal changes. Hose reels should be durable, affordable, and constructed of appropriate materials for exterior use.

Hose Reel Capacities

Hose reels are used for industrial and residential purposes to increase capability and production as well as to promote safety through proper storage and leak prevention. Reels can be hand crack operated or retracted electrically with a controlled rewind. Hose reels will have water pressure capacity limits that will be listed in terms of PSI. Large capacity hose lengths can be maintained and retracted allowing for easy use and operation in gardens, garages, and industrial settings.

Attaching Hose Reels

Hose reels are generally fitted to attach to standard outdoor faucets and work well with both rubber and vinyl hoses. However, vinyl hoses may be a better match for hose reels, as rubber hoses tend to have a wider diameter, which will reduce storage capacity and electronic crank speed. Accessories for hose reels can be purchased to further promote the workings of the reels, and will be found where the reel was sold, either on-line or in hardware and department stores.

Hose Reel Troubleshooting

If problems arise with either the hose or the reel, some simple investigative steps can be taken to determine the cause. If there are leaks coming from the reel and its attachments, be sure the exterior connection is firm and secure, checking the washer tightness as well. If there is trouble in crank or motorized retraction, pull the hose from the wheel out to its full length and check for kinks and knots.

There may also be unseen rocks or twigs collected by the retracting hose that are preventing full spindle rotation, and fully extending the hose will give a full view along the length to determine any blockage. In winter months, disconnect the reel from the exterior faucet, and drain any existing water from the attachment and the hose. Extend the hose to its full length and then wind it back with either the hand crank or the push of a button. Move the entire hose reel to a safe and dry storage area, as the proper maintenance and storage of a hose reel is an important part of its longevity.

By Barbara Poelle