How Many GPH Does a Garden Hose Deliver?

The number of gallons per hour (GPH) a garden hose delivers is an important measure to consider when determining which size hose is right for your needs. While there is no definitive answer to this question, we can provide a reliable estimate by looking at common variables that will affect the GPH rate of a garden hose. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence GPH rate and provide an estimate of the GPH rate of garden hoses of different sizes.

What Affects Garden Hose GPH Rate?

Length

The length of the garden hose has a large bearing on the GPH rate. As the length of the hose increases, the GPH rate will decrease accordingly. Generally speaking, a 50 ft (15 m) garden hose will deliver between 10 and 25 gallons per hour under normal operating conditions.

Inside Diameter

The inside diameter (ID) of the garden hose can also affect the GPH rate. Generally, the larger the ID, the more water the hose can deliver per unit of time, although this will depend on the length of the hose. A 1/2-inch-ID (12.7-mm) hose of 50 ft (15 m) will deliver around 25 GPH at optimal pressure.

Spray Nozzle

The type and size of the spray nozzle can also affect the GPH rate. Wide-angle nozzles with a larger opening will deliver more water per hour than ones with a smaller opening, such as a fan or pencil jets.

Water Pressure

The water pressure will also have an impact on the GPH rate. Higher water pressure will cause a greater flow rate, while lower pressure will lead to decreased flow rate.

Estimated GPH Rate of Garden Hoses

50 ft. (15 m) Hose

A 50-ft-long (15-m-long) garden hose of 1/2-inch-ID (12.7-mm) can deliver up to 25 GPH at optimal water pressure. With a wide-angle spray nozzle, the delivery rate may be increased to around 28 GPH.

25 ft. (7.5 m) Hose

A 25-ft-long (7.5-m-long) garden hose of 1/2-inch-ID (12.7-mm) is capable of delivering up to 15 GPH at optimal water pressure. With a wide-angle spray nozzle, the delivery rate may be increased to around 16 GPH.

5 ft. (1.5 m) Hose

A 5-ft-long (1.5-m-long) garden hose of 1/4-inch-ID (6.35-mm) can deliver up to 5 GPH at optimal water pressure. With a wide-angle spray nozzle, the delivery rate may be increased to around 8 GPH.

In Summary

The GPH rate of a garden hose will depend on a number of factors, including the length, inside diameter, type of nozzle, and water pressure. In general, a 50-ft-long garden hose with a 1/2-inch-ID (12.7-mm) can deliver up to 25 GPH at optimal water pressure. A 25-ft-long (7.5-m-long) garden hose of 1/2-inch-ID (12.7-mm) is capable of delivering up to 15 GPH, while a 5-ft-long (1.5-m-long) garden hose of 1/4-inch-ID (6.35-mm) can deliver up to 5 GPH under optimal conditions.

It is important to note that these figures are estimates and actual delivery rates may vary significantly depending on the conditions. For an accurate determination of how many GPH a garden hose delivers, it is best to consult a professional or use a GPH guage, which can be purchased at most hardware stores.