When you use your hose, does it seem like very little water comes out, or no water comes out at all? You may be scratching your head trying to figure out the issue, but there are often a handful of reasons that can narrow it down. Before you call a professional to your home, it’s essential to rule out all possible scenarios and determine if you can fix any of them yourself. This will save you time and money, and help teach you how to handle similar issues in the future.
This article will discuss some of the most common things to look for when your hose isn’t working properly. Even if you’re not an expert in water systems, it isn’t too difficult to see when something isn’t right in your home. Look out for these things, and you can start fixing your hose.
Leaky Pipes
A leaky pipe is one of the main culprits when anything related to your water system stops working. If the pipes that lead to your hose are leaking water, the water pressure of your hose likely won’t be as strong as it should be. In addition to this annoyance, a leaky pipe usually means that water is collecting somewhere it shouldn’t be in your house.
If you can find the pipe that’s causing you problems, there are a number of temporary solutions you can employ to fix it. Epoxy putty and plumber’s tape are some of the fastest ways to fix your pipe, and they can be easily found at most hardware stores. Once your leaky pipe is fixed, it’s important to dry up any pooled water and check for mold or other signs of water damage in the area.
Faulty Spigot
If your pipes aren’t the issue, the next thing to check is your hose spigot. Spigots can see a lot of wear and tear because of their exposure to the elements, so it’s not uncommon for them to become rusted or corroded.
Start by removing your hose and inspecting the inside of the spigot for any signs of deterioration. If there is rust on the inside or along the grooves of the spigot that cannot be removed, it’s time to travel to your local hardware store and buy a new one.
If you want to install a new spigot, you can do it yourself with a set of adjustable wrenches, plumber’s tape, and exterior caulk. Shut off the water to your house, drain the water line, and swap the spigots. Before you hook your hose back up, run the water briefly to ensure everything is sealed and installed properly.
Low Water Pressure
If you can’t find any clear signs of a leak or faulty spigot, the issue may be your home’s water pressure. The easiest way to check your water pressure is to adjust your home’s water pressure regulator. This controls the flow of water from the street to your home, and adjusting it can help more water come out of your hose and other faucets.
Your regulator can usually be found near your water meter. Before making any large adjustments, consult a plumber to ensure your water system doesn’t become overloaded. It’s usually best to make small adjustments and test your hose after each one, so you can find the perfect water pressure for your home.
Clogs
The bane of any water system is an obstructive clog, which may be the issue with your hose. If you can’t identify any of the previously mentioned issues, inspect your hose and spigot for any signs of a clog. Whether a small rock has found its way into your spigot or dirt is preventing water from flowing out of your hose as it should, removing these obstructions can quickly address your problems.
It’s also possible that your spigot may be clogged due to mineral deposits in your water. Neighborhoods with hard water are more likely to have mineral deposits that can solidify in your pipes, preventing the even flow of water. If a deposit is close enough to your spigot, you may be able to clear it out yourself, but if it is deep within your pipes, you may need the help of a professional plumber.
No matter what’s wrong with your hose, it’s important not to panic and assume the worst is wrong with your water system. Many of the issues you may be experiencing can be fixed quickly and inexpensively, and if you do need professional help, it shouldn’t be a massive project. With just a little help, your hose will work the way it should so you can water plants, wash your car, and do whatever else you need with it.
Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey. She writes for Al Coronado, a plumber in Tucson, AZ.