Just a few decades ago, there was only one type of hose. Today, the variety is astonishing. When purchasing a hose, consider its composition, length, diameter, and operating pressure. It's a good idea to check the ratings of the best manufacturers. This is the only way to avoid mistakes and make the right choice.
Material
Hoses are made using various materials. It's impossible to say definitively which are better or worse. The choice should be based on priorities. Most gardeners base their decisions on factors such as service life and price.
Rubber
This is the most popular material. It easily withstands temperature fluctuations, does not deform under high pressure, and is highly durable. Rubber hoses have a service life of 15 years or more. They are UV-resistant, so they can be left in the scorching summer sun. The downsides of this option include their heavy weight and high cost.
Silicone
This is the softest type of hose. They are convenient for watering plants in areas with complex geometries. Algae does not form in them, even after prolonged use. One drawback is their lack of durability. The hoses stretch easily under water pressure, so they are used only for drip or gravity-fed irrigation.
PVC
PVC hoses are cheaper than rubber ones. Their distinctive feature is their light weight. Furthermore, they don't become covered in algae. The downside of plastic hoses is their lack of strength. They can't be subjected to high pressure. Furthermore, PVC hoses don't handle temperature fluctuations well and have a lifespan of about three years.
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Size
The hose length should be chosen based on the distance between the outermost point of the area to be watered and the faucet connection. Ideally, the hose should have a slight sag; tension is unacceptable. Therefore, it's worth adding an additional 1–2 meters to the calculated length. Hoses can be purchased in factory-sealed coils or cut to length at the market. Several types of irrigation products are available today, ranging from standard lengths (2–30 meters) for garden plots to longer lengths for commercial greenhouses.
When choosing a diameter, consider the flow rate and quality of the liquid, the electrical voltage, and the required hose length. The most popular hose diameters are 1/2, 3/4, or 1 inch (2.54 cm). The lower the water pressure and the longer the hose, the smaller the diameter. Higher pressure and shorter lengths require a larger diameter. If the water quality at your dacha is poor, it's best to avoid a hose with a small diameter. A clogged hose can cause a drop in water pressure during irrigation.
Working pressure
Hoses made of different materials can withstand pressures of 2–10 atmospheres. These values are suitable for virtually all irrigation systems. Lightweight, flexible hoses should withstand pressures of up to 5 atmospheres, as well as fluctuating pressure levels.
For those looking to create a stand-alone, permanent irrigation system, experts recommend considering reinforced options. These have an internal mesh layer made of polymer thread or steel. Reinforcement can be single- or double-layered. The smaller the mesh size of the inner layer, the stronger the hose. A high-quality reinforced product is the most durable option.
Popular manufacturers
Hoses are produced by both little-known companies and world-renowned ones. The latter are reputable and produce high-quality products. Among the most popular are:
- Karcher. A German company founded in 1935. Specializing in the production of cleaning equipment.
- Quttro Elementi is an Italian brand of pumping, compressor, welding, and heating equipment. The company produces products for both hobbyists and professionals. Some of their models are unique in the world.
- Palisad. The company produces gardening tools made from high-quality materials using modern technology. Palisad frequently delights customers with new products.
- Belamos is a domestic company that produces high-quality pumps and irrigation tools at an affordable price.
- Gardena. The company was founded in 1961. This year, its products are sold in more than 80 countries worldwide.
Hoses are a must-have for gardeners today. They can be made from a variety of materials and have various specifications. When choosing a hose, it's important to pay attention to every detail. If you choose wisely, you can buy a high-quality product for a reasonable price that will last for years.