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When buying a garden hose, some consumers don't know to look for more then just prices. Buying a good quality garden hose is simple if you know what to look for. Buying cheap priced hoses may end up being a waste of your money down the road. Here are some things you should consider when buying a new garden hose.

Length
Length is a very important factor when buying a garden hose. Since garden hoses come in several lengths ranging from 20ft to 100ft you should consider the distance from your water-spigot to your garden, greenhouse and other areas that will need to be watered. The best idea is to go ahead and by a 100ft gardening hose to insure that you can reach all areas of your yard and garden. This will help to cut down on purchasing additional hoses later on for more length. Don't forget to check the diameter of the hose as well. Garden hose diameters range from 3/8" to 1". If you want to expel large amounts of water then you will want to get a wider hose so that you don't spend half the day watering your garden. Also consider hose diameter to insure that it will fit your sprinklers, nozzles and other watering accessories.

Quality
When choosing a garden hose check out the quality of the hose. Because the old saying "you get what you pay for" still exists, you will want to make sure that you are getting a good quality hose for the amount you are paying.

You should always check the construction of the garden hose to see what it is made of. Garden hoses come in rubber, PVC, and other materials. Check to see if you hose is heat resistant, UV resistant, and crack resistant. Check to see what ply the hose is. Look for better hoses that have a two-ply synthetic layer around the inside to resist bursting and cracking. Check the quality of the hose and compare it with prices. Be sure to get the best for your money!

Connectors
When buying a garden hose check the connectors or couplings to the hose. Make sure that they are quality couplings and will fit your garden accessories. One of the best options for couplings is a swivel coupling. Choosing a garden hose with a swivel coupling will help you to maneuver your hose as well as extend the life of the hose by reducing stress at the coupling.

Price
Price is important when buying a garden hose but shouldn't be the only factor use you to determine the best hose. You should expect to pay $25 or more for a quality that will last you more then one season. With that said, you also don't want to end up paying a high price for a low quality hose. Be sure to read the back of the garden hose package to insure that you are getting the quality hose you need and desire. Once you have determined which hoses will work best for you, compare the prices.

Water Uses
Depending on what you are planning to do with your garden hose, some garden hoses may not be suitable. If you are strictly using it to water the lawn, garden, and cleaning then you should be fine with any good quality hose that meets your requirements. However, if you will be using the garden hose to do routine yard work and to fill your dogs water bowl then you should look a little further. Be sure that if you are using a water hose that will be expelling water to be consumed by people or animals that you purchase a hose that is suitable and labeled FDA Approved for Drinking Water. The last thing you want is a hose that will give you nasty tasting water .

Keep these things in mind the next time you decide to buy a garden hose to insure that you are getting the best garden hose for your money and your needs.

Learn more about this author, Stephanie Manning.
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