Thread Size Garden Hose

Garden hoses are an essential yard tool, so it's important to understand their uncertain sizing standards. Most garden hoses have a thread size of one-half inch diameter, or sometimes, a Three-Quarter inch diameter size. In this piece, we'll introduce the basics: from male vs. female threads to popular hose end applications and other specialized considerations.

Understanding Male vs. Female Hose Threads

Male hose threads typically come threaded onto the outside of a garden hose. This is considered the male end of the hose and is the common side used to connect to your faucet. Female hose threads are found on the inside of the faucet, and those threads typically require a male end of the hose for connection.

Types of Hose Ends

The two most popular types of hose ends are the coupler and connector. The coupler is a male and female style connection. You'll use a coupler to connect two hoses together, typically sharing the same size thread diameter. A connector is a male or female hose end that connects directly to the faucet itself.

Common Threads Used

The two common thread sizes for garden hoses are one-half inch and three-quarter inch diameter. Some heavy-duty hoses are five eighths inch diameter. The other common thread sizes are usually found on special-purpose hoses like water guns, high-pressure sprayers, or specialized garden equipment.

Aside from the thread diameter, you'll also need to know the thread pitch. The threads on a garden hose can be either 55, or 60 degrees. Thread pitch is the measurement for the distance between threads. It's essentially how many threads there are per inch. 55-degree thread pitch is coarser and thus, sturdier. 60-degree threads are finer and are considered a "garden hose thread".

To Get the Right Size: Measure or Replace

Measuring the threads on your hose end is the most accurate way to determine size. You can use a ruler to measure or count the number of threads per inch. If you replace the connectors entirely, rather than just replacing your hose, picking the correct size is simpler. Aside from a ruler or vernier caliper, there are special thread measuring gauges you can purchase online or at a specialty store.

Other Specialized Considerations

Depending on your application, you may need to consider other specialized factors. For example, if you're using a garden hose in a commercial setting, you'll want to ensure the thread meet ANSI/ASME standards. If you're connecting a garden hose to your kitchen sink, you'll want brass connectors to assure a good fit and safeguard against leaks.

In Summary

Garden hoses are fitted with either one-half inch diameter or three-quarter inch diameter threads, 55-degree or 60-degree thread pitch. The male connectors fit onto the outside of the hose while the female connection threads onto the inside of the faucet. Measure or replace the hose ends to ensure you get the right size. For specialized applications, for instance, commercial settings or kitchen sinks, you'll need to ensure your thread pitch is compliant with standard ANSI/ASME requirements.