Q&A for How to Fix a Garden Hose

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  • Question
    How do I clean a black rubber garden hose so the black doesn't come off on my hands?
    Community Answer
    You can lightly sand the hose to remove the oxidized surface. Or, you can try painting it with an elastomeric paint, if the sanding doesn't work.
  • Question
    Can a garden hose be used like a snake to push a clog down a toilet?
    Community Answer
    Sort of, yes. You'd actually use a nozzle on the hose to let its water stream break up the clog. If the clog is deeper in the plumbing system, then just keep shoving the hose in while it's set to its strongest stream to flush out and break up anything in its path.
  • Question
    How can I repair an expanding hose pipe when it is in the middle of the hose?
    Community Answer
    Visit the hardware store and pick up a joiner and some hose clamps. Then, cut out the bad section, loosely put the clamps on the hose, install the joiner into each pipe, and tighten the clamps. Be careful not to over-tighten the clamps though.
  • Question
    Is it OK for me to leave the outside water faucet on when the attached hose is closed?
    Community Answer
    Well, it depends! If you are in a freeze prone region you should always discipline yourself to physically disconnect the hose from the bib even if you have turned the bib off, especially in the fall. If you get a hard freeze, the water will expand and damage the bib. It won't be evident until you turn the hose back on in the spring, and then you will be treated to a nasty surprise. The damaged bib will begin leaking into your basement, garage, or inside wall! Just make sure you see no leaks if you choose to leave the outside bib open!
  • Question
    How do I fit a new garden hose on a tight fitting?
    Community Answer
    Dip the end in very hot water to soften it first, then push it on while it is still soft.
  • Question
    Can I apply E6000 or rubber cement to stop a hose from spraying at the faucet?
    Joshua Pantoja-Lindsey
    Community Answer
    I would say no. If the leak is occurring around where the male and female ends meet (hose attaching to the faucet) grab some PTFE thread tape, commonly used for plumbing. Wrap that around the male end (probably the faucet tip) in the direction that you will twist in order to rethread the connection together. If it is in the faucet (where the knob is) then you likely need to unscrew the knob and replace a washer or replace the faucet itself.
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