Choosing the right automatic hose reel for your garden needs makes watering your garden a whole lot easier. Automatic hose reels take the wrestle out of standard hoses and retract back into their case ready for your next garden day. Here are a few points for you to consider when selecting a reel that’s right for you.
Go the distance
First things first, hose length. You want to make sure the hose can reach everywhere you need it to without any fuss. Assess your outdoor space and garden bed distance and figure out how far your tap is from your plants.
Material matters
Australian weather can be unpredictable and harsh, no matter where you are in the country. You need something strong and durable that can handle outdoor conditions and any task you throw at it. So, look for a hose made of reinforced PVC or rubber, which can stand up to all the twists and turns of watering and then return to the comfort of its case when you’re finished. Hose reels are often exposed to the elements, so weather resistance is key, look for reel cases made of UV-stabilised plastics or corrosion-resistant metals to ensure they’ll last.
Retract that
Your hose reel retraction mechanism should roll up smoothly without any hiccups. Automatic rewind systems are a game-changer here, no more struggling to get the hose back where it belongs. Look for a hose reel that is fitted with a high-tensioning innerspring to ensure smooth retraction after every use and a locking mechanism to keep the hose in place as you water.
Wall or post?
Mounting options are important too. Most hose reels will come ready with a swivel pin bracket and fixing screws to mount on a wall or you might prefer to have it freestanding fixed to a post. Wall-mounted reels save space and keep things tidy, however, the freestanding option gives you more flexibility in placement.
It’s the end that counts
Make sure your hose end fitting is compatible with your favourite spray nozzle or attachments. Look out for a nozzle that gives you the flexibility to change from a gentle mist to a jet spray and everything in between.
These are just some of the factors to take into consideration when looking to install or upgrade your hose reel. The right hose reel really does take the hard work out of watering the garden. No more messy hoses laying around the backyard either! Choose from the Nylex range of automatic hose reels designed for any size garden.
