GARDEN HOSE SAFETY

During a home watch inspection garden hose safety is one area of concern especially when the home is vacant and no one to supervise in case of water damage. Let’s speak frankly here and not beat around the bush….. It’s not uncommon that someone will use the hose to fill a pool, fill a weed spray bottle or water the plants. Be mindful not to allow water to stand in the hose after using it. This may mean removing the spray nozzle, sprinkler, or other gardening device from the open end and draining remaining water as you coil the hose back up. Especially, don’t allow a hose full of water to sit in the sun after you’ve turned it off; the heat buildup can damage the integrity of the lining and leach chemicals. One known fact in the situation is someone may be using your hose and not being responsible for the outcome if left on. I call them “water pirates”. Definition: irresponsible.

Most garden hoses are fiber reinforced and can take a lot of pressure before bursting. Pressure inside the hose will increase until it reaches the inlet pressure,

at which point there is no longer any driving force to create water movement in the hose and water holds steady, but it’s likely to be the connection between the hose and the adapter that fails. Results: unattended constant flowing water, considering the main water valve to the home is in the ON position. A broken sprinkler head running unattended for a period of time can cost up to an additional $1000.00 on your next water bill. I wonder what the cost would be for accidently walking away from a running hose for two weeks due to a faulty connection. Solution #1: Turn water valve off and drain remaining water when finished. Solution #2 purchase a lock for your water spigot and remove hose while the home is vacant and unattended. Precaution: have your home watch person check water lines including outdoor hoses, under sinks and any water connections for possible leaks.

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GARDEN HOSE SAFETY