It can be a real hassle trying to water your garden if you don’t have enough hose length. Maybe you’ve tried connecting two hoses together, but it just doesn’t seem to work right.
If your backyard is big enough, chances are that some of its corners will be distant from the nearest tap – beyond the grasp of a regular extendable hose.
If this occurs, you may either replace the spigot with one that is further away from your home (which will take time, money, and contractors) or combine two garden hoses to increase your reach.
If you want to add a new spraying nozzle, you’ll probably need to know how to connect two garden hoses as the process is very similar [1].
In this blog post, we will show you how to connect two garden hoses so that you can easily water your plants!
Hose Connector Types
Connectors are available in two distinct types and can be used to connect two expandable hoses together. Both of these connectors have different functions and may be utilized in a variety of settings, but both can help you link two expandable hoses with ease.
A single-piece adaptor is one of the simplest methods to accomplish this. This single-piece adaptor is beneficial since it allows you to join two hoses of the same type at the end. You can pick a connector that’s a double male or female, depending on what kind you need.
The second approach to connect your two expandable hoses is with a double-piece adaptor kit. This connector type may help you tackle a damaged end on one of your expandable hoses, or you simply want to reverse the direction of one hose’s “gender” or appearance.
It’s important to remember that not all garden hoses are compatible with one another. If you’re unsure about what type of hose connector you need or which ones are compatible with your hoses, it’s best to consult a professional before making any purchase. With a little research and the right tools, connecting two garden hoses is a relatively easy task.
Connecting Two Hoses Of The Same Size
Diagnose The Problem
Modern garden hoses, on the other hand, frequently include a male connector at one of their extremities. This is because nozzles are generally supplied with a female connection by default [3].
If you have two male connectors and just need to put a female hose thread into one of them, this is the situation.
Assuming that the two hoses you have are of the same size, then this task is a relatively easy one. You will simply need to find an appropriate adapter that will fit the male connectors on both hoses.
Get The Right Tools
The connectors you choose must be appropriate for your hose. The hose’s diameter is the deciding factor in this.
Diameter can usually be measured using a ruler, although it’s not always that simple. You may normally trim the broken piece off and bring it to the hardware store if only one of the connectors’ sides needs replacing.
If you need both, a pair of female and male connectors is the way to go. Because the male connections typically break first, you will only have to replace one of them. You’ll also require a utility knife, a screwdriver, and a measuring tape or ruler.
Cut A New Edge For The Hose
If the end of your hose is damaged, you’ll need to cut it off. You can do this with a utility knife. Just make sure that the new edge is flush and straight.
You should also check the other end of the hose for damage. If it’s damaged, you’ll need to cut it as well and replace both connectors.
Once you’ve got both ends sorted out, move on to the next step.
Prepare The Hose
If you own a vinyl garden hose, soften it before connecting the new connector. Just immerse it in hot water for a few minutes. This will make it more pliable and easier to work with.
If you’re using a rubber hose, skip this step.
Install The New Connector
To install the new connector, start by screwing it onto the hose. Make sure that you don’t cross-thread it.
You may use for this purpose such fittings as:
- Compression fittings – these have a nut that is tightened by hand to compress an inner sleeve over the pipe. This type of fitting is most often used with copper, plastic PVC, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), and sometimes PE (polyethylene) piping;
- Barbed fittings – these are also easy to install by hand, but they’re not as secure as compression fittings. The barbs grip the inside of the hose, so they can be pulled out quite easily. That’s why this type of connector is usually used with tubing, rather than hoses;
- Threaded fittings – these have threads on their inner surface that match the threads on the nipple of the hose. To install them, you’ll need to wrap some PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) tape around the threads of the nipple and then screw the fitting on;
Assuming that you’re using a compression fitting, finish installing it by hand-tightening the nut. You may need to use a wrench to get it tight enough.
Once it’s hand-tight, use a wrench to tighten it further.
Now do the same thing with the other connector. Remember to use a wrench to tighten both of them properly.
Repeat Steps On The Other Hose
Now that you’ve successfully connected one hose, repeat the steps on the other one. Make sure to use a wrench on both hoses to avoid any leaks.
Connect The Two Hoses
Once both hoses are properly connected, it’s time to connect them to each other. You can do this by screwing the two male connectors together. Again, use a wrench to make sure that they’re tight enough.
Now you know how to connect two garden hoses! Just follow the steps above and you’ll be able to do it in no time.
Connecting Two Hoses Of A Different Sizes
Measure Your Hoses
To make this job easier, cut the hoses down to 6 inches above the ground. Use a measuring tape and measure both hoses. Make a note of which one will have a male connector and which one will have a female connection.
Look for these precise measurements on the label while purchasing a connector. The male hose thread is usually marked as MHT, whereas the female one is FHT.
Install The Connectors
To cut, soften, and connect the hoses in the same way as described above. The only difference would be in the connectors. You will need two different types of adapters for this job, one for each hose. The end of a garden hose is usually either male or female threaded.
Screw-On The Adapter
Screw on the adapter to one end of each hose. You will need a wrench or a pair of pliers for this task. Be careful not to over-tighten the connection as it might damage the threads.
One More Solution – Use Push-In Connectors
This is the easiest way to connect two hoses of different sizes. You will need a set of push-in connectors for this job. These are readily available in any hardware store [4].
Just cut both the hoses at an angle and push one end of each hose into the connector.
Things To Keep In Mind While Connecting Two Hoses:
- The first thing you need to do is make sure that both hoses have the same diameter. If they don’t, then one hose will be unable to fit onto the other;
- It’s also important to check that both hoses are in good condition. Any cracks or holes in either of the hoses can cause problems later on;
- Once you’ve checked those two things, it’s time to start connecting the hoses! The easiest way to do this is by using a hose connector;
- Simply screw the connector onto one end of each hose, and then turn on the water. You should now have a steady stream of water coming out of both hoses
Comparison of Methods to Connect Two Garden Hoses
Garden hoses are essential for watering plants, washing cars, and cleaning outdoor spaces. However, sometimes one hose isn’t long enough to reach the desired area. In such cases, connecting two hoses is necessary. There are several ways to connect two garden hoses, and this table compares various methods based on their durability, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness.
| Connection Method | Durability | Ease of Use | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twist-On Connector | Low | Easy | Low |
| Hose Coupling | Medium | Moderate | Medium |
| Compression Fitting | High | Difficult | High |
| Push-On Coupling | Medium | Easy | Low |
| Threaded Connector | High | Difficult | Medium |
Explanation:
- Twist-On Connector: This is the simplest and most affordable method to connect two garden hoses. It involves twisting two hoses together with a connector. However, this method is not very durable and may leak over time.
- Hose Coupling: A hose coupling is a device that connects two hoses by screwing them together. It is more durable than the twist-on connector, but it requires some effort to screw the hoses together.
- Compression Fitting: This method involves using a special fitting that compresses the hoses together. It is the most durable method but requires some skill to install. It is also the most expensive option.
- Push-On Coupling: This method involves pushing two hoses together with a coupling. It is easy to use and affordable, but not as durable as the threaded connector or compression fitting.
- Threaded Connector: This method involves screwing two hoses together with a threaded connector. It is very durable but requires some effort to screw the hoses together. It is also more expensive than the twist-on connector and push-on coupling but less expensive than the compression fitting.
FAQ
Can you connect two expandable garden hoses together?
It’s not difficult to connect two expandable hoses, and the process is similar to that of connecting two opposing ends of two hoses. However, if you’re working with two different diameter hoses or two ends of the same type (male/male or female/female), you’ll need a pair of instruments [5].
Can you join two flexible garden hoses together?
Yes, you can join two flexible garden hoses together using a method called “barbed hose fitting”. This type of connector has ridges or barbs on one end that grip the inner wall of the hose. The other end of the connector is smooth so it can be inserted into the second hose.
Can you extend a garden hose?
It is possible to extend a garden hose by using a connector. There are different types of connectors available, but the most common type is the brass connector. This type of connector will allow you to screw two hoses together.
Another option is to use a plastic or rubber coupling, which will fit over the end of one hose and then be held in place with clamps. If you need a more permanent solution, you can connect two hoses together with a barb fitting.
This type of fitting has barbs that grip the inside of the hose, and it is then sealed with a clamp or ferrule.
How do you connect two hoses of different sizes?
The process of connecting two hoses of different sizes is actually quite simple. All you need is a hose connector.
First, take the larger hose and attach one end of the connector to it. Then, take the smaller hose and attach the other end of the connector to it. That’s it! Your hoses are now connected.
How do you connect two male hose ends?
There are a few ways to do this, but the most common is to use a double male connector. This has two threads, one on each end, that can be screwed into the hose ends [6]. Once both hoses are connected to the double male connector, you can then turn on the water and enjoy your extended reach!
Alternatively, you could also use a garden hose splitter. This has one inlet and two outlets, so you can simply screw one hose onto each outlet. The main advantage of using a splitter is that it’s much easier to disconnect the hoses if you need to; with a double male connector, you often have to unscrew both hoses before you can remove either one.
Are all garden hose fittings the same size?
No, all garden hose fittings are not the same size. There are three different sizes of garden hose fittings: standard, intermediate, and large.
Standard garden hose fittings have a diameter of ¾ inch (19 mm), intermediate garden hose fittings have a diameter of ⅝ inch (16 mm), and large garden hose fittings have a diameter of ½ inch (13 mm).
To connect two garden hoses together, you will need to use a coupling that is compatible with the two hoses. Garden hoses typically come with either male or female ends.
Male ends have a small metal pin that protrudes from the end of the hose, while female ends have a small metal sleeve that the male end fits into.
Why does my garden hose keep bursting?
If your garden hose keeps bursting, it’s likely because it’s damaged or old. However, there are a few other reasons why this might happen [7]:
- The water pressure in your area is too high. This can cause the hose to rupture;
- There’s a blockage in the hose. This could be due to debris or a kink in the hose;
- The temperature outside is too cold. If the water inside the hose freezes, it will expand and could cause the hose to burst;
How do you fit a tight-fitting hose?
The process of connecting two garden hoses is actually quite simple. All you need to do is follow these 4 easy steps:
- First, take the end of one hose and screw it clockwise onto the connector of the other hose. Make sure that both hoses have their ends facing in the same direction before you start screwing them together;
- Next, use your hands to twist the two hoses in opposite directions while they’re still screwed together. This will help create a tighter seal so that water doesn’t leak out when you turn on the faucet;
- Once you’ve twisted the hoses together tightly, unscrew the cap of the second hose and turn on the water at full blast. Let it run for a few seconds to make sure there are no leaks;
- Finally, screw the cap back on the second hose and you’re all done;
How do I properly secure the connection between two garden hoses?
To ensure a secure connection, use hose clamps or connectors designed for joining hoses. Slide the clamps onto the hoses before connecting them, then tighten the clamps over the overlapping section of hoses.
What is the recommended method to prevent leaks when connecting hoses?
To prevent leaks, apply a layer of plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) to the male threads of one hose end before attaching it to the female threads of the other hose end. This helps create a watertight seal.
Can I use a quick-connect fitting to join two garden hoses?
Yes, you can use a quick-connect fitting to easily join two garden hoses. Attach a quick-connect adapter to each hose end, and then connect them by simply pushing the adapters together until they click into place.
What should I do if the hose ends are stuck and won’t disconnect?
If hose ends are stuck, try twisting them gently in opposite directions while pulling them apart. You can also use pliers to grip the connectors for better leverage, but be careful not to damage the hose or fittings.
Is it possible to connect two hoses without a connector or fitting?
Yes, you can connect hoses without a fitting by using a DIY method. Cut off a short section from one hose end and carefully stretch the cut end over the other hose end. Secure the connection with hose clamps, but keep in mind that this may not provide the most secure or long-lasting connection.
Can I connect a garden hose to a soaker hose?
Yes, you can connect a garden hose to a soaker hose using a hose connector. Attach the garden hose to one end of the connector and the soaker hose to the other end. This allows you to provide water to the soaker hose while maintaining the convenience of using a regular garden hose.
What’s the best way to ensure a tight connection when joining two hoses of the same size?
Before connecting the hoses, make sure the ends are clean and free from debris. Lubricate the threads with a small amount of petroleum jelly or dish soap to help create a smoother connection. Twist the hose ends firmly together to achieve a tight fit.
Useful Video: Hose Quick Connect Buying Guide! They’ve Been A Game Changer in My Garden! 👍😀💦// Garden Answer
References:
- https://perfectforhome.com/how-to-connect-two-garden-hoses/
- https://survivalfreedom.com/can-you-connect-two-expandable-hoses-together/
- https://perfectforhome.com/how-to-connect-two-garden-hoses/
- https://seasonalpreferences.com/connect-two-expandable-hoses/
- https://survivalfreedom.com/can-you-connect-two-expandable-hoses-together
- https://gilmour.com/use-hose-connectors
- https://gardenaxis.com/why-does-my-garden-hose-keep-bursting/