What Size Threads Are On A Garden Hose

Garden hoses provide an essential service to a myriad of outdoor activities, from gardening and landscaping, to washing the car or outdoor furniture. But an overlooked element of garden hoses is the size of their threads. This subtle detail can make a big difference for homeowners, gardeners and landscapers in five important ways.

Thread Types

Garden hoses come with several types of threads, including National Pipe Thread (NPT), National Pipe Straight Thread (NPST) and garden hose thread (GHT). NPT and NPST are the threads most widely used in a domestic agricultural setting.

National Pipe Thread (NPT)

NPT threads are a U.S. standard for tapered threads used on both metal and plastic pipe. A tapered thread's diameter increases or decreases along its length, which makes pipe seal or disengage more quickly and easily than threads used on non-tapered pipes. NPT thread sizes come in 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4 inch sizes. The most common for garden hoses are 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch size threads.

National Pipe Straight Thread (NPST)

NPST is a U.S. standard for threads used on rigid plastic and rubber pipe. These threads are straight, not tapered, which offers better strength and reliability than tapered threads. NPST thread sizes come in 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4 inch sizes.

Garden Hose Thread (GHT)

GHT threads are most commonly used in garden hoses. These threads are straight, not tapered, and have 3/4 sizes. These threads are not compatible with NPT threads, so homeowners should be aware of which type of thread they have before purchasing items that require threads.

Thread Sizing

Threads on a garden hose are sized differently than other types of threads, such as those found on water systems in the home. This is an important factor to be aware of when connecting hoses and accessories. For example, a garden hose adapter that is 1/2-inch NPT at one end and 3/4-inch NPT on the other will not fit a garden hose with 3/4-inch GHT threads at both ends.

Adaptors and Connectors

Homeowners and gardeners can solve the issue of incompatible threads with the right adapter or connector. Connectors come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and are designed to connect multiple hoses together or allow accessories or attachments to be added. Swivel connectors and adapters are also available and increase the flexibility of the hose and the amount of mobility the user has.

Materials

The material with which a garden hose system is made of is another important consideration. Garden hoses are made of either rubber, vinyl, or other synthetic materials, such as polyurethane, that are suitable for gardening and landscaping. Each type of material comes with its own benefits and unique characteristics.

Rubber

Rubber garden hoses are stronger and more durable than their vinyl or polyurethane counterparts. They are also more flexible and resistant to cracking and kinking. Rubber hoses also come in a wider range of sizes and can often handle higher water pressures.

Vinyl

Vinyl hoses are the most inexpensive type of garden hose. They are usually lightweight and easy to handle, but can be less durable than rubber and other materials.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane hoses are a great alternative to rubber and vinyl. They are light, flexible, kink-proof, and weather-resistant. Additionally, polyurethane hoses can carry higher water pressure, are less likely to break under pressure, and will not corrode like metal hoses.

Size Options

Garden hoses come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 3/8-inch to 3/4-inch. Smaller sizes are better suited to lighter duties, such as watering potted plants or vegetables, whereas larger sizes are better suited for larger areas such as lawns and gardens.

Lengths

Garden hoses also come in a variety of lengths, from 25 feet to over 100 feet. Longer hoses offer greater range and flexibility, but are more difficult to store and can take up a lot of room. Homeowners should choose the hose length that best suits their needs.

Accessories

Garden hose accessories are an important part of garden hose systems. Accessories help improve efficiency and reduce wear and tear on the hose. Popular accessories include spray guns, Nozzles, end of hose fittings, leak-free connectors and more.

Spray Guns

Spray guns increase the accuracy and efficiency of garden hose systems by allowing the user to adjust the water pressure and flow from the nozzle. This can allow the user to water plants in a more targeted manner, or to reduce water waste from spraying aimlessly.

Nozzles

Nozzles are used to produce a jet/spray of water, instead of the steady-flow from a gun. Nozzles come in a variety of spray patterns - from a gentle mist to a powerful jet. Choosing the right nozzle will depend on the task at hand.

In Summary

Understanding the size and type of threads on garden hoses, as well as the right type of material, size, length, and accessories, is important for any homeowner, gardener or landscaper. With the right size threads, the right material, the right length and the right accessories, gardeners will be sure to find the most suitable garden hose for their needs.

References:

- https://www.herm-tpl.com/all-about-threads-pipe-fitting/

- https://www.grozone.co/blogs/garden-zone/garden-hoses-material-lengths-and-accessories

- https://perfectpond.com/garden-hose-tapered-straight-threads/