How to Repair a Garden Hose

The humble garden hose is your garden's best friend. Unfortunately, hoses are often abused and taken for granted. The most common problems are leaks, kinks and bent end fittings. Luckily, good quality hoses can be repaired to see yet another summer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Duct Tape
• Garden Hoses
• Garden Shears
• Hose Attachment
• Hose Repair Fitting
• Mild Liquid Soap
• Permanent Markers
• Duct Tape
• Permanent markers

1. Thread a gun-type nozzle onto the end of the leaking hose.

2. Turn on the hose to find the hole or leak.

3. Turn off the hose, remove the nozzle and mark the leak with black tape or a marking pen.

4. Purchase a hose repair kit from the hardware store. Repair kits allow you to cut damaged area out of the hose and reattach the two pieces with new connectors.

5. Cut off the leaky fitting with your garden shears. If the leak is in the center of the hose, cut an inch or two on either side of the hole.

6. Soak the cut end in hot, soapy water. The hot water will expand and soften the rubber, making it easy to slip the repair fitting inside the hose.

7. Clamp the plastic pieces on either side of the hose and screw them in place tightly.

Tips & Warnings

• There are brass repair fittings that press into place with a flange. There are also three part plastic fittings that are held in place with screws. Repair kits are available in both brass and plastic for male and female end fittings and also for repairing midhose leaks.
• For a pinhole leak, duct tape might work temporarily.
• If the hose still leaks after you have finished repairing the end fittings, replace the washer.
• Make sure the hose is threaded onto the faucet tightly to prevent getting wet.
• Once a hose is beyond repair, cut it into pieces and use for tree ties.

on 11/22/2005 To be certain you get the proper repair part, take the removed portion with you when purchasing the replacement. Having the old piece with you helps you make sure you get the right diameter and that the part you select is the correct one for your hose material (rubber or vinyl).

on 11/22/2005 If you store your hoses carefully - off the ground and out of the sun - you'll extend their lives greatly!