If your garden hose is looking worn out, you may be asking yourself: When does a garden hose go bad? This is a question that many homeowners ask, as they want to know if they need to replace their hoses regularly. While the lifespan of a garden hose can vary depending on the quality of the hose and how it is used, most hoses will last for several years before needing to be replaced. On average, a garden hose will function properly for 6-9 years.
Garden Hose Lifespan by Material Composition
Garden hoses are commonly made from either vinyl or rubber. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks. The material will also affect how long it will take for the hose to go bad.
Vinyl Hoses
Vinyl hoses are generally less expensive than rubber hoses, and they are also lighter and easier to handle. However, they are not as durable as rubber hoses and are more likely to develop leaks. Vinyl hoses will generally go bad sooner than rubber garden hoses, lasting 3-6 years.
Rubber Hoses
Rubber hoses, on the other hand, are more costly but also more durable and can last longer than vinyl garden hoses, if taken care of properly.
They can withstand being left out in the sun and cold better than vinyl hoses and are less likely to kink or leak.
Rubber hoses are also heavier and generally harder to handle than vinyl hoses. You’ll want to look into the best garden hose reels if you decide to purchase a rubber garden hose.
A rubber garden hose will generally go bad in 7-10 years.
Hybrid & Custom Materials in Garden Hoses
Some garden hoses are made of a blend of rubber and vinyl or even patented unique materials, which can make a difference in how long your garden hose lasts. The Flexzillla brand, which we think is the best garden hose on the market, is made with a proprietary material patented by the company.
5 Ways to Make Your Garden Hose Last Longer
A garden hose is an essential tool for any gardener, but it is also one of the most easily damaged items in your arsenal. With just a little bit of care, however, you can greatly extend its lifespan. Here’s how to make your garden hose last as long as possible:
1. Keep You Garden Hose Clean
One of the most important things to do is to regularly clean the hose. This will remove any dirt or debris that could clog the nozzle or weaken the hose. Remember what we said about mildew in the pores of a rubber hose?
You want to make sure to keep your garden hose clean to avoid damage from organic material like mildew, algae, and mold.
2. Store Your Garden Hose Properly
Proper storage can extend the life of your garden hose and protect it from extreme temperatures. In freezing weather, drain the hose completely and store it indoors. In hot weather, avoid leaving the hose in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Do not leave your garden hose lying out in the sun, especially on a driveway or gravel road where it will be repeatedly driven over. Driving over a garden hose repeatedly will drastically reduce how long your garden hose will last.
Many garden hoses are also wrecked by lawnmowers as a result of leaving them out in grass that has been overgrown.
Store the hose in a cool, dry place when not in use. A good garden hose reel can help you move your garden hose to a shady area or garage. It will also shield itself from the elements when it is properly wrapped up on a hose reel.
3. Repair Your Garden Hose as Needed
Most people don’t understand how easy it is to repair a damaged garden hose. If your garden hose is less than 5 years old and has been damaged, there’s a good chance you can repair the hose for a fraction of the cost of a new hose.
Be sure to inspect the hose regularly for any cracks or leaks. If you notice any damage, patches and garden hose repair kits can be purchased at most hardware stores.
4. Be Mindful of Kinks in Your Hose
A kink in a hose happens when the hose is folded or twisted in a way that makes it impossible for it to straighten itself out with the water pressure alone.
Water pressure can build up as a result of kinks adding undue stress to the walls of a garden hose. If the kink is left in place for a long period of time, the fold in the rubber wall of the garden hose can weaken its integrity.
Be on the lookout for kinks when you are using your garden hose and make sure to straighten them out as soon as you notice them. This will help alleviate stress on your garden hose and prevent it from going bad prematurely.
5. Only Use Your Garden Hose as Needed
Another factor that can affect the lifespan of a garden hose is how often it is used. If a hose is used regularly, it will likely need to be replaced more often than one that is used only occasionally.
Use your garden hose when you need to and for its intended purpose. A garden hose does not double as a bungee chord for packing up the car!
A Useful Video on Garden Hose Care
Conclusion
A good garden hose should last 10 years if cared for properly. There are so many uses for garden hoses outside of just gardening. You can even use a garden hose to siphon water, for instance.
If you want a garden hose that lasts, the first step is to choose a high-quality hose. Spending a little more money upfront will save you money in the long run, preventing you from buying a new hose every 2-3 years.
Prevent your garden hose from going bad by keeping it clean, storing it properly, only using it when needed, avoiding kinks, and repairing light damage with repair kits.
If you take care of your garden hose and use it properly, it should last for nearly 10 years before needing to be replaced. If you are unsure about how often to replace your hose, consult with a local gardening expert or the manufacturer of your hose.