If you're a  pressure washing professional, you understand how essential a high-quality pressure washer hose is for the success of your operation. The hose you choose plays a significant role in the reliability of your operations; poor-quality equals poor performance.

In this write-up, we’ll offer guidance on determining the type of hose you need, along with some insights based on our many years of experience in the industry.

One thing is certain; not all hoses are created equal. Many companies tout that they’re the best, and many are just duds.

Hose Lengths, Diameters, Materials, and Connectors

If you need a new pressure washer hose, it’s critical to evaluate four key factors that will determine the compatibility and overall quality of your hose: length, diameter, material, and connectors.

Here's a breakdown of each factor and how it relates to compatibility with your specific pressure washing equipment.

1. Hose Length

The length of the hose determines how far you can move from the pressure washer without needing to drag the machine with you. If you’re using a hose reel [link], be sure to get a hose that doesn’t exceed the maximum capacity of your reel.

• Short Hoses (25-50 feet): These are ideal for smaller jobs, like car washes or patios, where you don't need a ton of reach. They work well for electric pressure washers, which often need to stay close to a power source.
• Medium Hoses (50-100 feet): This length is versatile, offering mobility without compromising on portability. It’s excellent for home use or light commercial applications.
• Long Hoses (100-300 feet): For large-scale commercial operations, such as pressure washing driveways, buildings, or roofs, longer hoses provide maximum flexibility and reduce the need for constant repositioning of the washer.

2. Hose Diameter

The diameter of the hose affects both water flow (gallons per minute) and pressure capacity (PSI). Most pressure washer hoses come in three standard diameters:

• 1/4” Hoses: These are commonly found on consumer-grade electric and small gas washers with pressure ratings of up to 3,200 PSI. They are lightweight and easy to handle, making them perfect for residential use.
• 5/16” Hoses: This is a less common size, often used for prosumer-grade gas washers that operate between 2,700 and 3,700 PSI. These hoses offer more flow than 1/4” hoses but are still lightweight.
• 3/8” Hoses: These are designed for professional-grade machines with high flow rates and pressures that can exceed 10,000 PSI. If you’re working with commercial pressure washers, this is the diameter to look for. It’s not all about PSI, the larger size also allows for higher gallons per minute (GPM), which is required for commercial units.

The PSI ratings we mention here are the norm, not the rule. Specialty versions of small diameter hoses can be found at higher PSI levels.

3. Hose Material

The material of the hose affects its flexibility, durability, and whether it will leave marks on the surfaces you clean. Here are the most common materials:

• PVC Plastic: These hoses are inexpensive but tend to be stiff and less flexible. They are prone to kinking and coiling, making them harder to handle. PVC hoses are most suitable for occasional use.
• Rubber: Rubber hoses are heavier but much more flexible than PVC. They are resistant to kinking and curling but tend to leave black marks when dragged over surfaces like concrete. Quality rubber hoses come with wire braid bend restrictors.
• Polyurethane: Relatively new to the market, polyurethane hoses combine the flexibility of rubber with the non-marking benefits of plastic. They are ideal for professionals who need a durable, flexible hose that won’t damage the surfaces they clean.

4. Hose Connectors

The connectors at the ends of the hose determine how easily you can attach the hose to your pressure washer and spray gun. Understanding the various connector types and ensuring compatibility with your washer and gun is crucial. There are two primary types of connections:

• Twist Fittings (M22): These are the most common connections found on consumer-grade hoses and are usually threaded. M22 connectors (male or female) screw onto the washer and gun, offering a secure fit for basic machines. Most hoses for electric and small gas pressure washers come with M22 connectors.
• Quick-Connect Fittings (QC): These are more common in professional-grade equipment. They allow you to quickly snap the hose into place, making setup and breakdown faster. Quick-connect fittings are typically found on 3/8" hoses used in commercial operations. There are both male and female quick-connect plugs, and they’re often seen in setups requiring frequent hose changes.

Compatibility Considerations:

• Inlet and Outlet Fittings: Hoses are typically connected to the washer’s pump and the spray gun. It's important to check if your washer uses M22 threaded connections or 3/8" quick-connect couplers. Most consumer-grade washers come with M22 threads, but professional-grade washers often use 3/8" quick-connect systems.
• Adapter Kits: If your pressure washer and hose use different fittings, an adapter kit can help bridge the gap. For instance, you can easily convert M22 connectors to quick-connect couplers using a specialized adapter.

Pressure Washer Hoses | Overview And Concluding Thoughts

A solid understanding of the different pressure washer hoses, and making the proper purchase, will save you many future headaches. Whether you’re looking for the durability of the Stealth 100' Pressure Washer Hose, or some other design better suited for your needs, Spraywell can help.

Feel free to reach out and give us a call anytime! 561-964-3228