How can you be this confident ahead of time you might ask? The answers pretty simple. The hose is practically bullet proof. The swivel mechanism feels and looks industrial. The automatic return system also feels bullet proof. If you’re like me and want a product to last, then I feel this is the one to watch. Granted, there is the upfront cost. When the hose is retracted, it will disappear inside a neat unit. When not in use, most wall units protrude a maximum of 30 cm from the wall . This is a good size as it stops them from being hazardous or encroaching on your garden space.

The premium quality 35 metre hose with power grip technology is rated to 3500 kPa with a 10/10 kink resistance making it reliable, long-lasting and its high-density/quality double spiral mesh reinforcing reduces the chance of kinking, knotting and twisting. Both the hose and hose box are made from UV stabilised material that has been tested to the equivalent of 3 years of Australian sunshine.With manual hose reels, once you stop pulling the hose stops moving. However you do need to hold the hose taut to get the best water pressure. Automatic brake The hose is stored inside a tough UV stabilised plastic case that ensures protection from the sun and therefore extends its longevity. What we really love about the case is that it can pivot 180 degrees on its base to allow for a wider reach in your garden, just like the Gardena model does. While it has the word ‘basic’ in its name, this product is certainly not substandard by any stretch of the imagination. The reel’s casing and winding mechanism’s build quality is only second to the far more expensive Gardena model and it’s a close second at that. For washing your car, look for a suitable washing brush that attaches to the hose. What is the price range for automatic hose reels, and how do I choose the best one for my needs and budget? This Woodside 20m Auto Rewind Garden Hose Reel is one of the cheapest models on the market. Given its price, this hose reel has got all the features you see in the other, more expensive models. The hose is only 20 metres long but that’s perfect for small to medium-sized gardens. It measures 33 x 17 x 42cm and it’s pretty lightweight and simple to use.

Automatic hose reels are durable and are usually made of metal, fibreglass or plastic. The metal is generally powder-coated and rust resistant, while fibreglass and plastic naturally are. The reel boxes also protect the hose from wind, rain and harmful UV rays. What safety features are included with an automatic hose reel, and are there any safety concerns to be aware of? Compact units, holding 15 m hoses, are available for small gardens . In medium gardens, a hose of 20 – 30 m should work well. Larger gardens will benefit from a 30 – 40 m hose . You can always attach an additional extension to the hose whilst working. One of the most important reasons for a reel is to prevent the hose itself from becoming kinked or knotted. When that happens, splits tend to develop along with the rubber and this can cause the hose to break. The connectors provided with this automatic garden hose reel are plastic but good quality and I didn’t have any leaks. I would still suggest changing them though, as I would with any plastic hose connectors because in my experience, they simply don’t last and if you use a booster pump to up your pressure then they really won’t last five minutes. Installation can also be a bit of a challenge; at 16.4 kg it’s not the lightest of units and it needs to be fixed to a solid wall to make sure it stays in securely.Seeing as these garden hoses should be stored away in winter to prevent damage from freezing, a lighter unit like this may appeal to some, making the notion of the bi-annual job a bit less daunting. Not sure what to look for in a good automatic garden hose reel?
Well, we are here to help with this short guide that’ll highlight a few things to keep an eye out for. From housing and casing issues, to broken winding mechanisms, to length, to hose quality, and even the connectors that are included I run through what you need to make this happen from start to finish. I even show you an install and what components are needed in my HAUSHOF review. Housing / casing compared You tug on the hose in the automatic system to unroll or roll it up. A manual hose needs to be carried out of your garden shed and unrolled. Kinking and tangling Generous 35m hose length, accompanied by a handy 2m connector hose. (Also available with 20m and 25m hose length) So lesson learned. Next time pilot with a 3mm standard wood bit – you could use 4mm but I preferred a really tight fit.