Retractable garden hose reels are essential gardening tools. Any gardener or homeowner needs this product for easy usage and storage of garden hoses. Owning a garden hose reel helps make storing garden hoses easy. It helps prevent accidents and enhances the durability of the garden hose. However, if you want to enjoy all these benefits and more, you must get a good quality retractable garden hose reel. For this reason, in this write-up, we discuss choosing a retractable garden hose reel.
Factors to consider when choosing a retractable garden hose reel
Below are significant factors to consider when shopping for a retractable garden hose reel;
1. Retraction technique
One of the primary things you must consider is the retraction method. The retraction method will help influence the performance of the product. Below are some popular retraction methods;
- Self-retracting– this is an automated technique that does not require any physical effort. This is the best method because it is the most convenient.
- Conventional retracting– these require a human operator. They are usually cheaper but not as convenient as the latter.
- Spring retraction– this mechanism uses a spring
- Motor-based retraction– these mechanisms use a motor that has to be charged or battery-operated.
- Water-powered retraction– these mechanisms are powered by water instead of a motor.
2. Material
Another significant feature to consider is the material. When choosing the best retractable garden hose reel, you must get one made from materials that can withstand water pressure, various weather conditions, and constant use. The material must also be resistant to corrosion and rust since the product is prone to constant exposure to moisture. The best materials for retractable garden hose reels are; plastic, metal, brass, and aluminum. Note some brands use varying materials for different components. In this case, you may want to consider the different materials and their qualities.
3. Hose length and diameter
Various garden hoses can accommodate specific garden hose lengths. The hose length is usually indicated in the product description. This means that you can choose to go for a garden hose reel for long or short hoses, depending on your watering needs.
On the other hand, the diameter of the hose that the reel can accommodate is determined by design. Note that the hose diameter usually affects the water pressure. Therefore, when choosing the best hose diameter, you may want to think of your pressure needs, depending on the application. Like the length, the diameter is always indicated on the product description page.
4. Durability
Durability is always a must-consider element. This is especially the case because a retractable garden hose reel should be a one-time investment. You do not want to keep spending money on the same product or repairs. The material and the design usually influence durability. Therefore, you must consider both these elements keenly. Metallic retractable garden hose reels treated through methods like die-casting are always a better choice.
5. Cost
Finally, it would help if you considered the cost of the product. Naturally, retractable garden hose reels cost between 150 to 450 dollars. While the prices range from one store to the next, it is often wise to consider the product quality against the cost. You can always get affordable retractable garden hose reels from stores offering discount prices like GirraffeTools.com.
Conclusion
In addition to the features mentioned above, you must also consider the brand and type of retractable garden hose reel. Doing this will ensure you make a wise investment in your garden hose reel and do not have to spend money on repairs or replacements any time soon.
