Garden Hose Threads What Size

Introduction

With the warm weather coming and lawns needing to be watered, there is one important question that needs to be answered: What size threads are on a garden hose? Understanding the different thread sizes and how to properly attach a hose is critical to the longevity and efficiency of any hose. From thread sizes to accessory hoses, this article delves deep into the world of garden hoses.

Thread Size

One of the most important topics to cover when it discussing garden hoses is thread size. The most common type of thread is National Pipe Thread (NPT) which you will find on both American and Canadian hoses. According to the Plumbing & Piping Association (https://www.ppafittings.org/pipe-thread-types-pipe-fitting-standards/::textNational%20Pipe%20Thread%20%28NPT%29-,Pipe%20Thread%20Types%20and%20Designations,either%20tapered%20or%20straight%20threads.), NPT is commonly referred to as Remflex. This size of thread will commonly be labelled as 3/4 inch NPT. Just below is a table of NPT thread sizes to get a better understanding of which size of thread is needed to attach a garden hose.

Thread Size Diameter

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1/8" 0.405"

1/4" 0.540"

3/8" 0.675"

1/2" 0.840"

3/4" 1.050"

Other than NPT threads, garden hoses may have different thread sizes such as Garden Hose Thread (GHT).GHT threads are used to connect older garden hoses that may not feature the NPT threads. These threads are slightly smaller than NPT and can typically be found on older garden hoses. In comparison to NPT, GHT threads will typically be labelled as 3/4 inch GHT.

Connecting a Garden Hose

To properly connect a garden hose, the user must first identify whether the male or female end of the hose needs to be connected. For example, if a hose is used to connect a water valve to a sprinkler, the male end of the hose will need to be connected to the valve and the female end of the hose will need to be connected to the sprinkler. Once the user has identified the male and female ends of the hose, the user must then identify the type of thread size. Once the thread size is identified (NPT or GHT), the user can match the thread size with the proper adapter.

Accessories

Along with having the right type of adapter for the garden hose, there are a plethora of accessories available for garden hoses. Hose connectors are used to connect two hoses together to extend their length. Hose connectors come in two types: slip-on and threaded. Threaded hose connecters are the easiest type of connector to use as they simply twist on to the end of the hose.

Hose Washers are pieces of soft rubber or plastic that are placed inside the ends of a garden hose. These washers prevent water from leaking from the end of the hose, and without them, a garden hose would be useless.

Other hose accessories may include a hose guide which is used to protect a hose from being damaged by any sharp objects. There is also a water timer that can be used to regulate the amount of water going into the hose.

Summary

Understanding the thread size of a garden hose is key to properly connecting it. Common thread sizes for garden hoses are National Pipe Thread (NPT) and Garden Hose Thread (GHT). In addition having the right thread size adapter for the hose, there are also a plethora of other accessories such as hose connectors, hose washers, hose guides, and water timers. Knowing the differences between these products and how to use them is crucial to having a functioning hose.