Expandable hoses have become increasingly popular in recent years as a convenient and space-saving alternative to traditional rubber hoses. But are they really as good as they seem? Here we’ll take an in-depth look at the pros and cons of expandable hoses to help you decide if they are worth investing in.
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What are expandable hoses?
Expandable hoses are designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to store. When water flows through them, the inner latex tube expands up to 3 times its original diameter. When the water supply is turned off, the hose shrinks back down for easy storage.
The main features of expandable hoses include:
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Expands up to 3 times in diameter when filled with water
- Contracts down to a compact size for storage when empty
- Often made from latex inner tube with a flexible outer polyester layer
- Available in lengths from 25 to 100 feet
- Fit standard garden hose fittings
- Kink-free design
This ability to expand and contract makes them much easier to maneuver, store, and transport than traditional rubber hoses. They tend to be relatively inexpensive as well.
Pros of expandable hoses
There are many benefits that make expandable hoses an attractive choice over regular hoses:
Lightweight and portable
Expandable hoses are extremely lightweight, often weighing over 50% less than rubber hoses of the same length. A 50 foot expandable hose may weigh just 2-4 pounds, whereas a rubber hose of the same length can weigh 10 pounds or more. This makes them much easier to carry around the yard and maneuver into position.
Compact storage
When not in use, expandable hoses contract down to just 20-25% of their maximum expanded diameter. This allows them to take up far less storage space. A 50 foot expandable hose may coil down to just 18 inches across, compared to 4-5 feet for a rubber hose. They are much easier to tuck away neatly into a corner of the garage or shed.
Durable materials
The latex inner tube and tough woven outer layer of most expandable hoses make them quite durable. They are designed to withstand exposure to sunlight, temperature extremes, and the inevitable knocking around that garden hoses receive. Models with brass fittings tend to be the most robust.
Easy to maneuver
The lightweight and flexibility of expandable hoses make them much easier to drag around the yard and manipulate around and through gardens. The lack of memory in the hose means it lies flat and straight rather than coiling and tangling like rubber hoses.
Convenient length options
Expandable hoses are readily available in longer length options than regular hoses, typically ranging from 25 feet up to 100 feet. This allows you to water larger areas without having to disconnect and move a shorter hose.
Affordable price
A quality expandable hose generally costs approximately the same as a traditional rubber garden hose of the same length. Considering all the extra benefits they offer, this makes expandable hoses a very attractive option for most homeowners.
Cons of expandable hoses
While they offer some great advantages, expandable hoses also come with a few drawbacks to be aware of:
Slower water flow
Due to the smaller diameter of the latex inner tube, expandable hoses have a lower volume of water flow than traditional hoses. This means less water comes out the end per minute. A 5/8 inch rubber hose can have around 20-30% higher flow rate than a standard expandable hose.
However, the newer ‘high flow’ expandable hose models have been engineered to allow up to 30% more water flow. So opt for one of these if flow rate is important to you.
Not as durable as rubber
Though designed to be durable, expandable hoses generally don’t last as long as high quality rubber hoses. Rubber is simply a tougher material with natural resistance to temperature extremes and sunlight. Expandables may start to show wear after 2-3 years of regular use.
Proper care is important for longevity – avoid excessive UV exposure, extreme cold weather, and improper draining which can damage the inner tube.
Prone to bursting
If an expandable hose is left in freezing temperatures while holding water, ice expansion can easily burst the latex inner tube. They must be completely drained after each use in winter or when not in use for an extended period.
Also take care not to leave expandable hoses in hot sun while filled, as pressure buildup can cause bursting.
Can tear more easily
Expandable hoses are not quite as resistant to snagging and tearing as traditional rubber hoses. Care must be taken to avoid catching them on sharp objects or abrading the outer surface. Inspect them regularly for small leaks or holes.
May kink when empty
Since they are not filled with water pressure, empty expandable hoses can develop kinks that interrupt water flow. Allowing the hose to fill with water before turning on high pressure minimizes this issue. Newer anti-kink models are much better in this regard.
Key considerations when buying
Keep these factors in mind when choosing an expandable hose to ensure you get a high quality product:
Hose length
Consider the size of your yard and how far you need to reach when choosing length. 25 to 50 feet is suitable for smaller spaces, while 75 to 100 foot models allow you to water very large areas.
Outer cover
Look for thick, durable outer material that resists abrasion, punctures, and UV damage. Polyester or double latex covers are good choices.
Fittings
Brass fittings are strongest. Plastic is prone to cracking over repeated use. Go for crush-proof and leak-proof high flow brass fittings.
Water pressure rating
Check manufacturer maximum pressure ratings. Standard models handle 50-70 psi, while heavy duty units can handle up to 145 psi.
Special features
High flow designs improve water volume. Anti-kink technology prevents kinking when empty. On/off switches allow you to pause water flow as needed.
Brand reputation
Stick with reputable established brands with good customer feedback and warranties on their products.
Price
Expandable hoses range from $30 on the very low end, up to $80+ for premium models. Set a budget and look for best value at each price point.
Top expandable hose models
Based on key buying considerations like flow rate, durability, and ease of use – here are 5 of the top-rated expandable hoses to consider:
| Model | Length | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Flexi Hose Pro | 50 ft, 75 ft | – Anti-leak fittings – Brass connectors – Up to 45% more flow |
| Gardguard 50ft | 50 ft | – Durable polyester cover – Flexible & kink free – Withstands up to 12 bar pressure |
| TBI Pro Garden | 25 ft, 50 ft, 100 ft | – High quality brass fittings – 45% improved flow – Resists wear & all weather |
| GrowGreen 50ft | 50 ft | – Flexible & easy to maneuver – Stopper valve to control flow – Strongest fittings available |
| Flexi Hose Zero | 25 ft, 50 ft, 75 ft | – Patented zero-twist anti-tangle design – Durable double latex core – Flexible in all weather conditions |
Conclusion
Expandable hoses provide many advantages over traditional rubber hoses that make them an attractive option – but they also come with some drawbacks. Choosing a reputable brand and taking care of maintenance and storage considerations is important to get the best performance and longevity.
Overall, the convenience and portability of a good quality expandable hose makes it a useful investment for any homeowner. Just be realistic about the limitations compared with a rubber hose. For most average homeowners, an expandable hose offers the easiest way to keep their yard well-watered and their hose neat and easy to store.