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. |