Everything You Need to Know About Garden Hose Threads

There's nothing quite like having a garden hose handy for a myriad of outdoor maintenance tasks. But what size is garden hose thread, and how does it affect the type of garden hose you should choose? Read on to learn all about garden hose threads and how to choose the right garden hose for your needs.

What Is Thread Size?

Thread size refers to the size of the threads that secure the hose onto the pump or nozzle. Threads can vary in size depending on the type of equipment and the manufacturer. In the US, the most common thread size for garden hose systems is 3/4 inch in diameter and 11 1/2 threads per inch.

How to Measure Garden Hose Threads

Measuring garden hose threads is a relatively simple task. Start by lining up one end of your garden hose with the thread gauge and slowly stretching the hose around the gauge. Measure the thread size starting at the base of the male threads. Next, measure the distance from the bottom of the threads to the top of the highest thread. Finally, measure thread depth, starting from the base to the point of the highest thread.

Common Garden Hose Thread Sizes

The most common garden hose thread sizes are:

• 3/4 inch in diameter and 11 1/2 threads per inch (this is the standard garden hose thread size in the US);
• 3/4 inch in diameter and 15 threads per inch (this is the standard garden hose thread size in Canada);
• 1/2 inch in diameter and 11 1/2 threads per inch (this is the standard garden hose thread size for attaching nozzles);
• 5/8 inch in diameter and 11 1/2 threads per inch (this is the standard garden hose thread size for connecting multiple hoses together); and
• 7/8 inch in diameter and 11 1/2 threads per inch (this is the standard garden hose thread size for connecting sprayers and watering tools).

What Is GHT?

GHT stands for Garden Hose Thread, or commonly known as the residential garden hose thread. When you buy a hose and attach it to a spigot, the thread size should match the size of the hose. GHT is the most common garden hose thread size in the US and Canada and is sometimes referred to as an NHR (National Hose Thread) connection.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Garden Hose

When choosing a garden hose, the following things should be taken into consideration:

• Thread size: Make sure your garden hose thread size matches the size of the attachment it needs to connect to.
• Length: Consider the distance between the water source and the area you need to water. The longer the hose, the more pressure you'll need.
• Hose diameter: The diameter of the hose affects the flow of water. A wider diameter will provide more flow and pressure, while a narrower diameter will provide less.

Brief Recap

Garden hose thread size is an important factor to consider when purchasing a garden hose. The most common thread size for garden hoses in the US and Canada is GHT, which is 3/4 inch in diameter and 11 1/2 threads per inch. Make sure the thread size of your hose matches the size of the attachment you need to connect to. When selecting a garden hose, also consider its length and diameter for the amount of pressure and flow you'll need.