10 Things to Consider When Buying Flexible Rubber Hose

Rubber hoses are essential pieces of equipment for many industrial and commercial applications. There are many different types of rubber hoses, each with their own unique benefits and features. In this comprehensive guide, we will answer some of the most common questions about rubber hoses. We&#;ll cover everything from what rubber hoses are used for to how to select the right hose for your needs. So whether you&#;re just starting out and you need to learn more about rubber hoses, or you&#;re an experienced professional looking for a refresher course, read on!

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In this guide:

FAQs about Rubber Hoses:

Industrial vs Domestic hoses

The first thing to know about rubber hoses is that there are two main types: industrial and domestic. Industrial hoses are intended for use in heavy-duty applications such as factories, construction sites, and other environments where they will be subject to high levels of wear and tear. Domestic rubber hoses, on the other hand, are designed for use in the home and other less demanding applications.

Now that you know the difference between industrial and domestic rubber hoses, let&#;s take a closer look at each type.

Industrial rubber hoses

As we mentioned, industrial rubber hoses are designed for heavy-duty applications. They are often made of thicker, more durable materials than domestic hoses. This means that they can withstand more wear and tear and last longer in demanding environments. Industrial rubber hoses are also typically wider in diameter than domestic hoses, which allows for greater flow rates.

Some common examples of industrial rubber hoses include:

• Air hose: An air hose is used to carry air from a compressor to tools or other equipment.
• Water hose: A water hose is used to carry water for irrigation, construction, or other purposes.
• Steam hose: A steam hose is used to carry steam for heating or cleaning applications.
• Welding hose: A welding hose is used to carry welding gases from a tank to a welding torch.

Domestic rubber hoses

As we mentioned, domestic rubber hoses are designed for use in the home and other less demanding applications. They are often made of thinner, less durable materials than industrial hoses. This means that they will not last as long in demanding environments but they are typically cheaper than industrial hoses. Domestic rubber hoses are also typically smaller in diameter than industrial hoses, which limits the flow rate.

Some common examples of domestic rubber hoses include:

• Garden hose: A garden hose is used to water plants or wash vehicles.
• Shower hose: A shower hose is used to carry water from the shower head to the shower.
• Dishwasher hose: A dishwasher hose is used to carry water from the dishwasher to the sink.
• Washing machine hose: A washing machine hose is used to carry water from the washing machine to the drain.

How Rubber Hoses are Made

Rubber hoses are made of three main components: the tube, the reinforcement, and the cover. The tube is the innermost component and it is typically made of synthetic rubber or thermoplastic rubber. The reinforcement is the middle layer and it is typically made of one or more layers of textile cord or steel wire. The cover is the outermost layer and it is typically made of synthetic rubber, thermoplastic rubber, or polyurethane.

The three components are then joined together using a process called vulcanization. Vulcanization is a process where the rubber is exposed to heat and chemicals in order to improve its strength and durability. After vulcanization, the rubber hose is then ready to be used.

Different types of materials used in rubber hoses

The type of rubber hose you need will depend on the application you are using it for. Different rubber hoses are made of different materials, which means they have different strengths and weaknesses.

Some common rubber hose materials include:

• Natural rubber: Natural rubber is a popular material for rubber hoses because it is inexpensive and has good abrasion resistance.
• Butyl rubber: Butyl rubber is a synthetic rubber that is known for its excellent airtightness.
• Neoprene rubber: Neoprene rubber is a synthetic rubber that has good heat resistance and weather resistance.
• EPDM rubber: EPDM rubber is a synthetic rubber that has excellent UV resistance and weather resistance.

How to choose the right hose for your needs

When selecting a rubber hose, you need to consider the following:

• The diameter of the hose
• The length of the hose
  The working pressure of the hose
• The burst pressure of the hose
• The temperature range of the hose

If you&#;re not 100% sure about your specifications for each of these requirements, it&#;s best to speak to a hose expert like those at All Hose and Valves &#; with decades of industry experience, they can guide you in the right hose type for your application.

You also need to consider what type of rubber hose you need. There are three main types of rubber hoses:

1. Industrial rubber hoses &#; these hoses are designed for use in industrial applications. They are usually made from heavy-duty rubber and have higher working pressures than other types of rubber hoses.
2. Layflat hoses &#; these hoses are designed for use in low-pressure applications. They are usually made from lightweight rubber and have lower working pressures than other types of rubber hoses.
3. Hydraulic hoses &#; these hoses are designed for use in high-pressure applications. They are usually made from reinforced rubber and have higher working pressures than other types of rubber hoses.

Picking the right rubber hose is important because it will ensure that the hose can withstand the conditions it will be used in.

If you pick a rubber hose that is not suited for the application, it could fail and cause serious damage.

Common Accessories and parts for hoses

Rubber hose nozzle: A rubber hose nozzle is a device that is attached to the end of a rubber hose. It is used to control the flow of liquids or gases from the rubber hose.

Rubber hose coupling: A rubber hose coupling, or connector, is a device that is used to connect two pieces of rubber hose together.

Rubber hose clamps: Rubber hose clamps are devices that are used to secure rubber hoses to other objects.

Rubber hose washers: Rubber hose washers are devices that are used to create a watertight seal between two pieces of rubber hose.

Rubber hose end cap: As the name indicates, an end cap is a device that is used to seal the end of a rubber hose.

Rubber hose Fittings: hose fittings, also known as gaskets, are devices that are used to connect rubber hoses to other objects, including other hoses.

Common Industrial Use Cases/Hose Types

Multipurpose Oil Resistant Hose: This rubber hose is perfect for handling petroleum-based oils. It is also resistant to abrasion, so it can withstand being dragged across the ground.

Bulk Material Handling Hose: This rubber hose is perfect for handling bulk materials, such as sand, gravel, and cement.

Dredge Sleeve Hose: This rubber hose is perfect for dredging operations. It has a smooth bore and is abrasion-resistant.

Washdown Hose: This rubber hose is perfect for high-pressure washdown applications.

Chemical Transfer Hose: This rubber hose is perfect for transferring chemicals from one place to another.

Air & Water Hose: commonly used in industrial applications to transfer air or water from one machine to another, cleaning equipment with high-pressure water, and pumping fluids in a manufacturing process.

Fuel Line/Vapor Emission Hose: Vapor emission hoses are rubber hoses that are used to handle fuel and vapour. They can be used in a variety of applications, including agricultural irrigation and construction.

Layflat hoses: Layflat hoses are rubber hoses that are designed to be very flexible. They can be bent into a variety of shapes and are perfect for applications where a traditional rubber hose would not work. The most common use cases for layflat hoses include agricultural irrigation, mining and construction/engineering applications.

Automotive hoses: Automotive hoses are rubber hoses that are used in automotive applications. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including carrying fluids, ventilation, and exhaust.

Fire hoses: Fire hoses are rubber hoses that are used by firefighters to carry water from the fire truck to the fire. Fire hoses are rubber hoses that are specifically designed to handle high pressure and high temperatures. They typically have a very high pressure rating and a high temperature rating. They are also abrasion-resistant, so they can withstand being dragged across the ground.

Flood cleanup hoses: Flood cleanup hoses are rubber hoses that are used to remove water from an area that has been flooded. They typically have a very high capacity and can handle a large amount of water.

Pneumatic/Hydraulic Hoses: Pneumatic hoses are rubber hoses that are used to carry air. Hydraulic hoses are rubber hoses that are used to carry fluids. Both types of hoses are used in a variety of applications, including automotive, industrial, and construction.

Different sectors where hoses are used

• Agricultural irrigation
• Mining
• Construction/engineering
• Automotive
• Firefighting
• Flood cleanup
• Industrial applications
• Pneumatic applications
• Hydraulic applications

Common Domestic Use Cases

Rubber hose pipes for water

When you think of hoses around the house, you probably think about:

• Washing the car
• Cleaning the gutters
• Spraying down the driveway or patio
• Watering the plants
• Filling up the pool
• Washing the dog

They&#;re called &#;flexible&#; hoses for a reason! &#;

Rubber hoses for cars

Cars have rubber hoses for:

• The engine (to carry oil and coolant)
• The brakes (to carry brake fluid)
• The transmission (to carry transmission fluid)
• The power steering system (to carry power steering fluid)
• The air conditioning system (to carry refrigerant)

Rubber hoses for Marine Vehicles, Caravans & RVs

Hoses are also commonly used in marine vehicles, caravans and RV applications for plumbing, drinking water, exhaust, and sanitation.

Check out our full range of PVC Hoses here.

Domestic drainage applications

You&#;ve probably got hose pipes in more places than you realise. They&#;re always working hard behind the scenes (and walls) to keep things moving &#; as a rule of thumb, if you don&#;t know the hose is there, that means it&#;s doing a good job!

Although rubber isn&#;t the only material used for drainage pipes, it&#;s not uncommon either. Rubber hose pipes for waste water drainage can appear in a number of places:

• In the kitchen &#; carrying wastewater from sink and dishwasher to the sewer
• In the bathroom &#; carrying wastewater from shower, sink, and toilet to the sewer
• In the laundry &#; carrying wastewater from washing machine and clothes dryer to the sewer
• Outside &#; carrying stormwater runoff to a drain or sewage system rubber hose pipes are an essential part of any plumbing system.

Maintenance and Disposal of Rubber Hoses

Rubber hoses should be inspected on a regular basis and replaced as needed. rubber hoses have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced.When disposing of rubber hoses, it is important to follow the proper protocols to ensure that they are disposed of safely and correctly. Rubber hoses can be recycled, but they must first

Common defects in rubber hoses

Rubber hoses are susceptible to a number of common defects, especially as they age. These include:

• Abrasion
• Cracking
• Ozone degradation
• UV degradation
• Holes or punctures

It is important to inspect rubber hoses regularly for these defects and replace them as needed.

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How to repair a rubber hose

If a rubber hose has a hole or puncture, it can be repaired using a rubber patch or silicone repair tape. To do this, cut a piece of rubber that is slightly larger than the hole or puncture. Clean the surface of the rubber hose around the hole or puncture and apply a thin layer of rubber cement to the surface. Place the rubber patch over the hole or puncture and press it into place. Apply another thin layer of rubber cement or similar high-grade adhesive to the surface of the rubber patch. Allow the rubber cement to dry for 24 hours before using the hose.

When to replace vs repair a rubber hose

There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace a rubber hose:

• The age of the rubber hose
• The severity of the damage
• The type of rubber hose
• The cost of repair vs replacement

In most cases, it is best to replace a rubber hose that is damaged. This is because rubber hoses have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. rubber hoses are also susceptible to a number of common defects, which can make them more difficult to repair.

How to store your hose properly

Rubber hoses should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Rubber hoses can be damaged by heat, cold, and UV rays, so it is important to store them properly. Rubber hoses should also be stored away from sharp objects that could puncture or cut them.

When not in use, rubber hoses should be stored in a hose reel or similar storage device. This will help to keep them organized and protected from damage.

How to clean rubber hoses

Rubber hoses can be cleaned using a variety of methods, depending on the type of rubber hose and the amount of dirt and grime. For light cleaning, rubber hoses can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge. For more difficult cleaning jobs, rubber hoses can be cleaned using a pressure washer or power washer. In some cases, rubber hoses can also be cleaned using a solvent-based cleaner.

It is important to follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions when cleaning rubber hoses. This will ensure that the rubber hose is not damaged during the cleaning process.

Cleaning rubber hoses is an important part of maintaining them. Hoses should be cleaned on a regular basis to remove dirt, grime, and other debris.

How long do rubber hoses last?

Rubber hoses have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. rubber hoses are susceptible to a number of common defects, which can make them more difficult to repair. In most cases, it is best to replace a rubber hose that is damaged.

The lifespan of a rubber hose depends on a number of factors, including:

• The type of rubber hose
• The environment in which the rubber hose is used
• The amount of use the rubber hose receives

In general, rubber hoses should be replaced every three to five years. However, this can vary depending on the factors listed above. It is important to inspect rubber hoses regularly for signs of wear and tear. Hoses that are damaged or showing signs of wear and tear should be replaced as soon as possible.

Can rubber hoses be recycled?

No. You should never put your old hoses into your recycling bin. They are one of the worst items for people at the recycling plant to deal with as they get tangled with other recyclables and can be a nightmare to extract and remove, as well as having the potential to cause machine breakdowns and become a safety issue for workers.

To dispose of your old rubber hose, you should put it into your general waste bin &#; for the same reason as listed above, it is a good idea to first cut the hose into smaller segments to prevent it from getting tangled during transport to landfill.

Important note: If your hose has been used to carry toxic or corrosive materials you should take extra care when handling and disposing of the hose as it may pose a health risk to you and others. When in doubt follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions.

Signs that it&#;s time to replace (not repair) your hose

Sadly, all good things must come to an end (yes, even this article) &#; here are a few signs that it is time to replace your rubber hose:

• More than three to five years old
• Leaking fluids
• Cracks or tears in the rubber
• Bulges or deformities in the rubber
• Holes or punctures in the rubber
• Excessive wear and tear
• Chemical damage
• UV damage (faded/brittle/cracked)

If you notice any of the above signs, it&#;s time to replace your rubber hose.

FAQs about Rubber Hoses

Are rubber hoses safe to drink from?

No. Rubber hoses are not safe to drink from. rubber hoses are made of materials that can leach chemicals into water, which can be harmful to your health.

Can rubber hoses be used for fuel?

No. Rubber hoses are not designed for use with fuel. Fuel can damage rubber hoses and cause them to leak.

Can rubber hoses be used for oil?

No. Rubber hoses are not designed for use with oil. Oil can damage rubber hoses and cause them to leak.

Do rubber hoses contain BPA?

No. Rubber hoses do not contain BPA. BPA is a chemical that is found in some plastics. rubber hoses are made of rubber, which does not contain BPA.

What is the difference between rubber and PVC hoses?

PVC hoses are made of polyvinyl chloride, which is a type of plastic. rubber hoses are made of rubber. Rubber is a natural material that is made from the sap of rubber trees. PVC is a synthetic material that is made from chemicals.

Which is better rubber hoses or [insert any other type of material here]?

There is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on your needs and preferences. Vynil hoses are more flexible than rubber hoses, but less durable. PVC hoses are less likely to kink than rubber hoses, but they are also more brittle and can rupture if subjected to too much pressure. Understanding your use case is the most crucial step in any hose purchase so you can get the right type &#; for efficiency, longevity and safety.

Where to buy your next rubber hose?

All Hose and Valves is South-East Queensland&#;s leading supplier of hoses of all types, as well as fittings, valves, clamps and numerous other accessories tailored for industrial, commercial and automotive applications. With store locations in Caboolture, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and an experienced team of hose enthusiasts ready to take your call, there&#;s never been a better time (or place) to buy your next rubber hose! Visit us in-store, browse our website or give us a call today.

Wrapping up

(Sorry, couldn&#;t resist the pun&#;)

Rubber hoses are one of the most versatile and widely used products in the world. There are countless types of rubber hoses, each with their own unique uses and benefits.

We hope you found this rubber hose resource helpful and informative. If you have any questions that we didn&#;t cover, feel free to leave a comment below and we&#;ll do our best to get back to you ASAP.

And remember, when in doubt &#; always consult the manufacturer&#;s instructions! Stay safe out there rubber hosers! Keep it reel! (Okay, last one, we promise&#;)

Garden hoses don't last forever. When you're in the market for a new one, these tips will help you make an informed purchase.

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Your garden hose is probably working overtime this summer as you water plants, irrigate a vegetable garden or wash the car. According to hose manufacturer Teknor Apex, a good garden hose will last five to 10 years if properly maintained. A bad garden hose, as most of us have already found out, will waste water, function poorly and cause bouts of frustration.

So to keep the kinks out of your relationship with your garden hose, let&#;s take a look at what to consider before you buy a new one.

Types of Garden Hoses

Lightweight or heavy-duty? Standard or coiled? Flat or expandable? Who knew there were so many types of garden hoses? Here are some of the most common types of hoses you&#;re likely to find at your local garden center:

• All-purpose hose. An all-around basic hose for watering and cleaning is available in different sizes and materials, and may be lightweight or heavy-duty.
• Flat hose. These compact, easy to coil hoses expand when filled with water but lay flat when not. Because they have to be flexible to collapse when empty, they&#;re usually made of lightweight material that typically won&#;t last as long.
• Coiled hose. If you&#;re tight on space or just hate fighting with your hose when it&#;s time to put it away, this type of hose retracts into a neat coil. They usually come in shorter lengths (see below for more info) so are suitable for watering small areas.
• Expandable hose. Another option for small yards or patios, an expandable hose looks petite, but its length doubles or triples when it&#;s filled with water. These lightweight hoses are for light-duty jobs, and generally don&#;t last long.

Special-feature garden hoses:

• Sprinkler hose. The entire length of a sprinkler hose is flat, with small holes on the top. When the water is turned on, it sprays out of the holes like a sprinkler.
• Soaker hose. Covered with pinholes, a soaker hose slowly drips water into a garden bed.
• Drinking-water-safe hose. Many of us drank from the garden hose as kids and survived it, but that doesn&#;t make it a good idea. Most hoses contain toxic plasticizers, but those marked &#;drinking water safe&#; are free of BPAs, phthalates and lead.

Garden Hose Features

Here are the garden hose features you should consider:

• Length. Hoses typically come in lengths of 25, 50, 75, and 100 feet. Consider the size of the area you need to water, or how far away your birdbath or dirty car are from the spigot/outdoor faucet, and choose a length based on that.
• Diameter. According to Lowe&#;s, hoses range from 3/8- to 3/4-in. in diameter, with most being 5/8-inch. The bigger the diameter, the more water a hose can carry, but the hose will also be heavier.
• PSI. The flow rate or water speed and pressure in a hose is measured in pounds per square inch, or psi. The hose packaging will be marked with the maximum psi the hose can handle. The tougher the hose, the higher the psi.
• Flexibility. The more flexible a hose, the easier it is to coil and uncoil. But if a hose is too flexible, it will kink easily, which can cause it to split and deteriorate faster.
• Material. With a few exceptions, garden hoses are made of rubber, vinyl or a combination of the two. Vinyl hoses cost less and weigh less, but they&#;re generally not as durable as rubber hoses. Rubber hoses are heavier and costlier, but are more durable and less prone to kinking than vinyl hoses. Hoses made of a combination of vinyl and rubber are a good mid-range solution &#; they cost less than rubber hoses but last longer than vinyl ones.

Garden Hose Accessories and Attachments

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There is a stunning array of garden hose accessories, attachments and couplings, and an equally wide variety of prices, features and quality. As with the hoses themselves, if an item is too cheap, it&#;s probably not going to last long.

• Couplings. Also called fittings, couplings are what attaches your hose to the spigot/outdoor faucet and other attachments. They&#;re made of brass, aluminum and plastic. Brass is the most expensive option but considered the best for performance and longevity. Plastic is the cheapest and least durable choice.
• Nozzles. Garden hose nozzles can give you a pistol-like jet of water for cleaning, or be adjusted to a wide gentle spray that&#;s good for watering a large area of delicate plants. Like couplings, nozzles are made of plastic, metal or a combination of both. Metal nozzles weigh more, last longer and are less prone to breaking if they&#;re dropped on a hard surface.
• Reels and caddies. A hose reel can be attached to the wall of a structure to provide a space for winding up and storing a hose, or it can be freestanding. A hose caddy serves the same purpose, except that it&#;s portable and comes with a crank for easy hose wind-up.
• Sprinkler heads. We could write an entire story about these! Sprinkler heads attach to a garden hose and water a large area of grass or garden, often with an oscillating spray.
• Timers. For soaker hoses, sprinkler hoses and hoses with sprinkler head attachments, hose timers can be attached so you can water for a set period of time, including when you&#;re on vacation.

How To Choose the Right Garden Hose

Your garden hose purchase is likely to boil down to a few considerations, including:

• Usage and durability. If you need a hose for occasional watering, you&#;re probably okay spending less on a light-duty hose. For regular sprinkling or watering of a large lawn, go with a heavy-duty hose.
• Type. The amount of storage space you have will determine whether you want a coiled or expandable hose, or if you want to stick to a standard type.
• Length. Consider the dimensions of the area you&#;re watering, and buy a hose that&#;s slightly longer than the farthest point your hose has to reach.
• Budget. A 25-foot garden hose can cost anywhere from $18 to $60 at The Home Depot. Price usually correlates to quality.

Garden Hose Maintenance

Improve the lifespan of your hose by taking care of it using these tips.

• Put it away after each use. A hose left stretched out on the ground can get kinked, run over by the car and damaged by the sun&#;s UV rays.
• Wind it up. Don&#;t leave your hose in a heap &#; roll it onto a real or caddie to reduce kinks, or at least coil it up neatly.These
• Stow it in the winter. Disconnect your hose when gardening season is over, drain it and store it in the garage until next year.

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