The pressure washer hose needs continuous replacement, which is justified as they are constantly under heavy pressure. So when you are replacing your pressure washer hose, the number one confusion you will be facing is what size of hose you need. So, what is the right pressure washer hose size chart?
Pressure washer hose is available in a range of sizes, each with its own benefits. Typically you will find them in three diameter sizes; 1/4 inches, 3/8 inches, and 5/16 inches. However, not all sizes are suitable for you, depending on the pressure washer you use.
Thus, if your pressure washer hose is getting damaged and you will need to replace it but are confused about the sizes, we are here to help you. Keep on reading to know more.
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Is it Possible to Use Any Pressure Washer Hose?
No, you cannot use any pressure washer hose; they vary in length, diameter, materials, and many more. It also depends on the type of pressure washer machine you are using, as every machine doesn’t have an exact amount of pressure to support different types of hoses.
Thus, replacing your current hose with any hose won’t be beneficial. Either you won’t get the functionality you’ve come to expect from the hose, or you won’t be able to attach the hose to your device at all.
Pressure Washer Hose Size Chart
The number one criterion for finding the perfect pressure washer hose is its length and diameter. These two factors greatly impact the overall performance and suitability of the washer hose.
So, down below, we will talk about everything you need to know about the size of your hose.
| Criteria | 1/4 inch Pressure Washer Hose | 5/16 inch Pressure Washer Hose | 3/8 inch Pressure Washer Hose |
| Weight | Light weight | Light to medium | Heavier |
| Size | Small Flow | Narrower than 3/8 | Larger flow |
| Pressure (PSI) | 2700-3000 | 2700-3600 | 5000++ |
| Length (feet) | 25, 35, 50 or longer | 25, 35, 50 or longer | 25, 35, 50 or longer |
| Use | Home usage | Home Usage | Commercial |
| Price | $0.98 per square feet on average | $1.20 per square feet on average | $1.53 per square feet on average |
Let us first talk about the diameter of the pressure washer hose, as this is the factor upon which the overall performance of pressure washing heavily depends.
1/4 inch Diameter Pressure Washer Hose
The most typical hose diameter for home or consumer-grade pressure washers, whether they are driven by gas or electricity, is 1/4 inch. It is the most popular size for residential use and is readily able to withstand pressure between 2700 and 3000 PSI.
It has the narrowest size regarding the flow of water among the three accessible diameters. These hoses are a great option for washing small to medium-sized areas around the house, including a patio or deck. The Karcher pressure washer is pretty good enough in this case.
Expecting a very strong water pressure to clean big areas from this hose is not reasonable, given that it has the lowest water flow of the three options. Also, something to consider is the price; the 1/4 inch diameter hose has the lowest price and is more readily available.
5/16 inch Diameter Pressure Washer Hose
When it comes to the pressure washer hose, the 5/16-inch diameter hose is often shadowed by the other two options. However, they can be a great choice, too, if you need something bigger than the 1/4 inch option but not as big as the 3/8 inch option.
They can withstand pressures of up to 2700-3600 PSI and are primarily used for consumer and enterprise-class gas pressure washers. The water flow may handle medium to big washing surrounding the house, such as compact-sized gardens and lawns.
These hoses are simpler to move around and can quickly cover the entire region. If the input is maintained at its maximum capacity, a 5/8-inch water hose over 25 feet long will average output 44 gallons of water each minute.
Additionally, you may use this for low-volume commercial pressure cleaning. The price of 5/16 inch hoses is in the medium range, slightly more than 1/4 inch but lower than 3/8 inch.
3/8 inch Diameter Pressure Washer hose
The last pressure washer hose is the 3/8 inch diameter hose which is also the strongest and heaviest option available. They are the thickest option available, and because they can withstand pressures of up to 5000 PSI and occasionally, even more, they are frequently used in industrial pressure washers.
Although they are designed for heavy-duty industrial uses, you may use them at home if you have a particularly big garden or lawn. A 3/4-inch water hose can deliver up to 72 gallons of water per minute over a distance of 25 feet.
However, it is a bit difficult to find this water hose, and it is only sold at stores that specialize in selling robust gardening products. It is also the most expensive option for a pressure washer hose available.
Length of the Pressure Washer Hose
Technically speaking, as the length of the hose gets longer, the water flow rate will decrease. A 20 to 50-feet hose can be plenty for you if you live in a tiny home or mostly wash your little car with your pressure washer. However, the typical length of a pressure washer hose for an industrial machine can be up to 100 feet.
All three types of hoses we have discussed so far come in almost all lengths, like 25, 35, 50, and 100 feet. So you can choose the best feasible option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a 100 feet hose too long?
The ideal pressure washer hose size depends on the type of work you will be using it for. For instance, you are okay with 25 feet if you are utilizing the pressure washer to clean tiny patios, lawns, and yards. However, you might need a 50-foot hose for bigger lawns. But, when using a pressure washer for industrial purposes, 100 feet of length is very common.
What is the perfect size pressure washer hose?
The most typical hose diameter for home and regular pressure washers, whether they are powered by gas or electricity, is 1/4 inch. 5/16 and 3/8-inch hoses are used in mild to heavy industrial applications because they offer a better pressure-holding capability than 1/4-inch hoses.
How much PSI do I lose per foot of hose?
As long as you’re working on level ground and under normal operational circ*mstances, you won’t normally lose significant pressure as you extend the length of the hose you use. For instance, the pressure drop per 100 feet on a 1/4-inch hose with a 2-gallon/minute flow is around 60 PSI.
Conclusion
Finding the correct pressure washer hose size is essential, or else the hose won’t properly fit the machine, and you won’t be able to clean it. So, today in this guide, we have shared a complete pressure washer hose size chart.
We believe by now you know about the different sizes of pressure washer hoses available and which is the perfect fit for your work. Also, focus on the type of material for the hose when you choose it.
However, if you are still confused about the perfect size for your pressure washer, read the manufacturer’s manual, which should mention what size hose you will need.
You Can Also Read:
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