Garden hoses are part of the basic equipment of every gardener. The hoses are now available in many variations and sizes. But what's the difference? We'll tell you whether you should choose 1/2 or 3/4 inch for your garden hose.
In a nutshell
- Inch specifications relate to the inner diameter
- 1/2 inch is sufficient for common gardening work
- Pressure loss in the garden hose
inch size of garden hose
The size of garden hoses is described in more detail by customs. The inch specifications refer to the inner diameter of the garden hose. The correct specification is made according to DIN EN ISO 6708 by the designation DN. The following number roughly corresponds to the inner diameter in millimeters. Garden hoses are available in three standard sizes:
- 1/2 inch (12mm diameter)
- 3/4 inch (19mm diameter)
- 5/8 inch (15mm diameter)
There are also other sizes such as 1 inch for special activities.
In order to be able to connect the garden hose to the tap, you have to pay attention to the correct inch size.
Notice: The inner diameter of the hose must match the outer diameter of the fitting for a smooth connection. If necessary, measure the values before purchasing.
Garden hose: 1/2 or 3/4 inch?
The most common garden hose sizes are 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch. However, the two specifications do not only differ with regard to the inner diameter. Differences also exist with regard to other factors. We have listed the differences in our table.
| 1/2 inch | 3/4 inch |
|---|---|
| smaller | greater |
| lighter | heavier |
| easy to roll up | harder to roll up |
| normal water flow rate | higher water flow rate in the same time |
| normal case; for common activities | for higher demands; larger gardens |
| ideal for: mobile work; walk through the garden; watering and filling watering cans; to simulate fine rain | ideal for: fixed hoses; long hoses (50 m+); irrigation systems; additional taps |
| high pressure drop | low pressure drop |
For everyday gardening, a 1/2 inch hose is usually sufficient.
The question of hose thickness is therefore dependent on several factors:
- required amount of water
- length of hose
- personal preference
water pressure
In order for enough water to be pumped through the hose, there must be enough water with enough pressure. A certain water pressure is necessary, especially for the operation of sprinkler systems. This depends on various factors:
- pressure of the water source
- Garden hose length
- Garden hose diameter
Pressure losses occur in the garden hoses themselves. The reason for this is the friction between the water and the inner wall of the hose. The friction decreases towards the middle of the cross-section of the hose. The larger the cross-section of the garden hose, the lower the friction that occurs. 1/2 inch garden hoses therefore have a pressure loss that is about 5 times higher than 3/4 inch hoses.
The inch size of the garden hose has an impact on the water pressure.
Notice: However, the following also applies: the longer the garden hose, the greater the loss. Therefore, despite the pressure loss, a 1/2 inch hose may be more suitable for short distances.
frequently asked Questions
Can I connect 1/2 inch garden hoses and 3/4 inch hoses together?Yes. Simply select suitable connectors for this. The fittings/ adapters are available in hardware stores or online for a wide variety of combinations of potential sizes. In order to minimize the pressure loss, the hoses should be connected in such a way that the water flows from the larger diameter hose to the smaller one.
What else should I look out for when buying a garden hose?In addition to the factors already mentioned, you should also pay attention to the material. Depending on the material, the hose may contain harmful substances. Quality is also important. Higher quality hoses don't kink as easily. The hoses not only save you trouble, but are also more durable overall.
How much does a garden hose cost?Garden hoses are available in a wide variety of price segments. A good hose costs about 1 to 2 euros per meter. Cheaper hoses are usually not recommended.