Watering your garden is a breeze when you have the right kind of hose nozzle. With many varieties on market, offering a range of spray styles, a new hose nozzle might just be the garden item you never knew you needed.
The good, old hose nozzle might be a small item, but actually has a huge impact on your daily gardening routine.
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As different sizes and plant types have a variety of watering needs, there’s a huge market of hose nozzle types available.
So, how do you know which one to choose? Follow our Australian buyer’s guide to find out which hose nozzle will be right for garden needs and what to look out for purchasing.
How Do Hose Nozzles Work?
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When watering the garden, a sprinkler is great but not always the most effective or economical way to water your garden. Especially, as it’s so easy to forget and leave your sprinkler running.
A garden spray gun is also ideal for when watering gardens along walkways and flowerbeds. It’s also optimal when having to focus your watering on new seedlings or grass seed.
A garden spray gun changes the pressure of the water flow and makes it optimal for watering. With each type of nozzle, you can have different kinds of spray patterns.
Depending on your nozzle type, your hose can produce a powerful jet or a soft mist.
Bigger plants will be able to tolerate stronger water streams, but seedling and more fragile plants will only be able to withstand a gentler watering.
A garden spray gun is also great as it works with a trigger that allows you to easily control when the water comes on or off.
How Do I Choose A Spray Nozzle?
As there are so many different types of nozzles which offer a wide range of applications, it’s hard to pin down which really is the best spray nozzle.
When in the market for a new hose nozzle the main features you’ll want to consider are:
- Material
- Nozzle Type
- Grips
- Spray Pattern
- Hose Connection
- Flow Rate
If you’re looking for a spray nozzle for your vegetable garden, you’ll want to consider a fan hose gun.
If you’re looking for a hose nozzle to provide a strong spray, you’ll want to look at a fireman nozzle.
A good choice, for all round, everyday gardening would be a dial nozzle.
Metal Spray Nozzles Vs Plastic Nozzles
Metal and plastic are the most common materials used for spray nozzles.
A full metal spray nozzle is generally heavier but will last you far longer. The usual metals used include brass, zinc and aluminum. If you’re looking at a metal nozzle, powder coated varieties are best.
Full plastic nozzles are best avoided as they simply don’t last and as such aren’t great value for money.
The most common and cost-effective hose gun you’ll find on the market is a combination of metal and plastic. In this design, the most important parts are made of metal, but the handle will be plastic, which makes the hose gun lightweight and rust-proof.
What are the different types of Nozzles?
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There are 6 main types of hose nozzles that you’ll find on the market. Each offers different kinds of spray styles and will have different applications within your garden.
Here are 6 types of spray nozzles:
Pistol Grip
This is a common garden hose nozzle you’ll find in plenty of gardens. It makes for easy single-handed watering, with a trigger controlling water flow.
The best pistol grip spray gun would be made from a mix of plastic and metal. When it comes to finding the right hose gun, be sure to invest in a quality one as cheaper varieties are prone to break.
Dial Nozzle
This is a great option for general garden use, as it has a dial that allows you to change to diverse spray patterns.
Most dial nozzles allow you to interchange between water flows like:
- Jet
- Flat
- Cone
- Mist
- Soak
- Shower
Fan Nozzle
This is a specialized hose nozzle that is great for fast and effective watering. This nozzle is especially good to use when watering delicate plants. As the hose nozzle has many little holes, it creates a soft spray that still wets quite significantly.
Traditional Nozzle
A traditional metal spray nozzle is one made of brass or zinc. They have a simple twist control which produces a powerful jet of water. As these are super simple and standard, without any bells or whistles, they tend to the strongest and longest lasting.
Fireman Nozzle
Fireman nozzles aren’t really great for gardening as they release lots of water at high pressure. These nozzles are however great for misting large areas or for cleaning patios etc.
This is the only nozzle type you can use to pressure wash.
Soaker Nozzle
Also known as a bubbler nozzle, this kind of hose nozzle is not very common. They do really well to release water at a very slow pace, so are great for a good soaking.
A soaker nozzle is optimal for tender plants and to minimize runoff.
What is the Best Hose Nozzle?
The best hose nozzle is one that is made of a solid, lasting material and offers a clean and consistent spray.
Source: Amazon
Best Spray Nozzles Available on the Market Today
Source: Amazon
This is an incredibly robust option with enamel coating designed to last.
With 10 watering patterns to choose from, flow control knob and ergonomic soft rubber grip, you can enjoy trouble free watering.
It’s a top quality, heavy duty nozzle that you’ll be able to depend on.
Source: Amazon
This is our top pick when it comes to a garden spray gun.
With ergonomic design offering optimal comfort and control, you can use this hose for more than just your garden.
It offers 8 great watering patterns and fits onto all standard garden hoses. Plus, the rubber insolation allows you to use either hot or cold water.
Source: Amazon
This is another great option, that has application beyond just your garden.
It’s great for washing cars and washing pets, too. It has a high-quality anodized finish which prevents rust and corrosion.
The hose nozzle sprayer is also insulated with rubber washers which help to prevent leakage. Plus, you can enjoy a 12-month worry free warranty.
Source: Amazon
This is a great pick for those with arthritis or who struggle with a week grip.
This garden hose nozzle has a large handle with on/off function, making it super easy and comfortable to use.
It’s a robust hose designed for rough use. Plus, it has six spray models to choose from, ranging between a high-power pressure jet and a soft mist shower.
Source: Amazon
This is a great offering from a trusted Australian brand. It’s a durable option with a great quick connect male connector for ease of use.
With 5 fantastic spray patterns, it’s a great option for beginner gardeners.
Source: Amazon
This variety from Hozelock offers a stronger spray system with only 3 spray patterns.
It’s great for general cleaning and everyday watering.
Plus, it has a lockable trigger which minimizes strain on your hands, while preventing any water wastage.
Source: Amazon
This has to be our top pick as it’s by far the most professional and comprehensive nozzle on market.
It has a high-pressure industrial design with 8 comprehensive spray patterns with a super easy selector.
It has a heavy-duty, ergonomic handle made from textured rubber that offers slip resistance. Plus, this hose gun has a money back guarantee.
Source: Amazon
This hose nozzle offers a huge variety when it comes to spray options.
It has a soft rubber handgrip, and has a nozzle made of high-quality brass. This is an ideal, all round garden spray gun.
Source: Amazon
This is a nifty and lightweight option; with a smart throttle you can adjust with your thumb.
It has 7 different spray patterns and a rubberized, non-slip grip. Plus, you can enjoy a 2-year warranty.
Source: Amazon
This is another great garden spray gun that you can easily use to clean your car, deck, sidewalk and so much more.
With 9 spray patterns, you really can use it for anything. It also comes in a variety of cool colours.
Hose Nozzle Care and Maintenance
As time goes on and you start to use your nozzle more frequently you may find that your nozzle clogs or corrodes over time.
It’s important to remove your nozzle after use and store it properly indoors. It is also recommended to allow your hose pipe to drain fully after use, to ensure there is no built-up pressure.
You should also avoid dragging your hose by the nozzle to avoid wear and tear or nozzle loosening.
How Do You Unclog Your Hose Nozzle?
Should you notice that your nozzle has some blockages in your nozzle caused by debris and specks of dust, there is an easy way to try and de-clog it.
Here’s how:
- Fill a bucket with 4 cups of hot water, ¼ cup bleach and 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid.
- Soak your nozzle in the solution for 15 minutes.
- Thereafter rinse under cold water.
- Allow your hose nozzle to air dry.
Best Hose Nozzle Summary
When on market for the best hose nozzle or garden spray gun, be sure to choose one of a high-quality material.
While some models will be more expensive, investing in the right garden nozzle can help you enjoy years of effortless watering.
