There are just so many things that can go wrong when you have a garden. You could have an issue with pests. Unruly cats and dogs could be ruining your plants. You might have sown plants that cannot thrive in the climate in your region, no matter how hard you try to help them survive. And then you could also have problems with your garden tools, such as a leak in your garden hose. The leak could be coming through a hole along the hose, directly from the faucet, or at the hose connector. Whatever the case, this is definitely bothersome, not to mention a huge waste of water, and if you do not intend to purchase a new one, read on to find the remedy for your problem.
Steps to Fix a Leaking Garden Hose Connector
1. If The Leak Comes From The Garden Hose Connector
Step 1: Change the Gasket
Most garden hoses come with a flat gasket, and if the leak is coming from a problematic hose connector, you can simply change it. You can also try replacing it with an o-ring.
Step 2: Use a Hose Repair Kit
If the first method doesn’t work, you can also try cutting off the hose end and changing it. Put the clamp on the hose, then the hose barb. Put some liquid dish detergent to serve as a lubricant. Slide the clamp up to the barb’s center and tighten.
2. If The Leak Is Due To A Hole Or Puncture Along The Hose’s Length
Step 1: Turn The Water Off
Turn off the water and disconnect the hose.
Step 2: Clean The Hose
Wipe the hose dry with a piece of cloth or some paper towels. Make sure that the surface close to the hole is completely free of dirt and water.
Step 3: Use Electrical Tape
Mark the spot on your hose where the hole or puncture is located–particularly if the hole is too small to be seen–and put electrical tape on it, making sure to overlap several times to secure it. Put the water back on to ensure that you have done it correctly and fixed the problem.
Step 4: Use A Hose Mender Or Repair Kit
You may also cut off the section of the hose wherein the hole or puncture is located. After doing so, connect the two remaining sections with a hose repair kit or hose mender. A hose repair kit contains a coupler and two clamps. Put one clamp onto one end of the hose. Then put a coupler into that end, then slide the second clamp over the coupler. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws of the clamps. The hose mender you use must be suitable for your hose, so cut off a small piece of the hose and bring it to the hardware store with you. Put the water back on to ensure that you have done it correctly and fixed the problem.
3. If The Leak Comes From The Faucet Or The Hose Bib
Step 1: Look For The Packing Nut
It’s the small metal threaded ring that attaches the faucet’s stem to the pipe. Usually, it’s this part that you have to fix if the faucet stem itself is leaking. Tighten it using a wrench until the leaking stops.
Step 2: Use Teflon Tape Or Valve Packing
Another way you can try to fix it if the first method doesn’t work is by using Teflon tape. Loosen the packing nut, wrap some Teflon tape or valve packing around the part where the nut sits. Then, put the packing nut back on, making sure that it’s tightened.
Step 3: Change The Washer
Turn off the water and open the spigot. Let the water drain. Loosen the packing nut and pull the entire faucet out of the wall. Look for the main washer and unscrew it. Replace it with a new one then put the screw back in. Put the faucet back into the wall and screw the handle in. Tighten the nut.
4. How to Protect Your Garden Hose
Like they say, prevention is better than cure. You sure can fix a garden hose if ever it has a little damage, but wouldn’t it be better if you can protect it from developing any damage from the beginning? If you want to spare yourself from the hassle of having to repair your garden hose, here are a few things you can do to take good care of it.
1. Roll It Up
After every use, carefully roll it up and put it on a hose cart and store it in a safe place.
2. Storage
Don’t just leave your hose lying around if you are done using it. Ideally, you should keep your hose in an area where it is cool and dry. Also, avoid hanging the hose on a large nail, since it may cause damage. If you don’t have a hose cart, purchase a holder, which you can get from a hardware store. Storing your hose properly will protect it from extreme temperatures, unnecessary tangling, and even pets might decide to turn your garden hose into a chew toy.
3. Detangle It
Sometimes, your garden hose–particularly if it’s a long one–can get tangled. Make sure to not just leave it like that and untwist it if ever this happens. Otherwise, your hose might get damaged in the long run.
4. Think About Temperature
Do not expose your hose to extreme temperatures. Creases may become cracks if you expose it to high heat, or if water inside it freezes.
5. Drain The Water
Make sure to drain all the water out of the hose after every use and prior to storage since otherwise, the gaskets and seals might lose their integrity more easily.
6. Make The Right Purchase
If you’re going to buy a new hose, choose one that is made of rubber instead of vinyl since rubber hoses are more resistant to temperature changes and are less likely to develop cracks.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, having a leaky garden hose is an annoying issue if you have a garden, but with the right tools, you certainly can fix it yourself, even without the help of someone who is an expert at plumbing. Successfully fixing a leaky garden hose will not just save you from higher water bills, but also from an exhausting trip to the hardware store.
