A pressure washing reel is one of the best things you can buy when it comes to keeping things organized. The reel allows you to store your hose without it being thrown around corners or leaving it in the middle of the way, which is especially bad if you put it in the garage next to your car, because you might break it without even noticing.
But choosing the perfect hose reel can be difficult, particularly if you don’t know how to pick one that can handle your power washing hose. One factor that you need to observe is how would you use the reel. For instance, some, like Giraffetools,auto reels, can be mounted on a vehicle or reel cart for easy transportation. Others have to be placed in-wall or convenient spots.
Another important thing to pay attention to is the size of the reel itself. Most of the pressure washer hoses come with a standard 3/8” diameter, but some might be different based on the type. Typically, the manufacturer will specify their size on the package.
Choosing the right type
For those who don’t use pressure washers, the normal hose reel will do just fine. But you need to be aware that the standard plastic hand-crank is prone to leakage and can be extremely hard to reel.
If you use a pressure washer, however, you should consider a stainless steel reel. The high pressure cleaning hose reels not only prolong the hose life, but they also save time and provide easy maintenance.
It’s true that corrosion can happen in any wet environment. But in the case of pressure washers, it greatly increases the danger. By choosing the right type of stainless steel for your hose reel, you will maintain the durability of your hose reel for years while avoiding spending more than needed.
Hose Reel Pressure Ratings
You must make sure that the hose reel you choose will be able to handle the maximum pressure rating. If you don’t, you’ll put yourself in danger, especially in case of water bursting through the hose. Even mounted reels might not be able to handle the pressure on these situations.
If you are using a pressure washer, make sure that you hose reel can handle at least 1,200 PSI for a consumer-grade model. A professional model must be able to handle at least 3,400 PSI.
Fit the hose you are using
Some reels made can be purchased with the hose (depending on the model you want), while others allow you to buy your own hose. Even if it’s cheaper, you have to make sure that they will fit properly into your machine and reel. That way you avoid bending and breaking it.
Gallons per minute (GPM)
These must be taken into account when deciding what reels and hoses to buy. For instance, a larger hose (such as 1/2-inch diameter) can disperse more water. That way, you’ll be able to clean slightly faster than a standard pressure washer hose.
