The Daily Fix: Repair a Torn Garden Hose

So you're out in your yard watering your plants or washing the car, when you notice there's water coming out of your garden hose -- from a spot other than the nozzle.

You're bound to find holes and tears in your garden hose, whether from careless damage or simply from age. Don't give up and buy a new hose just yet. The greenest approach is to fix the puncture and keep using the one you've got.

If your hose only has a small tear, you may be able to repair it with plumber's tape, which is available at your local home improvement store. For a quick fix, you can also try black electrical tape.

If the hole is fairly large and uneven, you probably need to repair it with a garden hose repair kit. This can be accomplished in about a half an hour or less. In addition to the repair kit, you'll need plumber's tape, and a utility knife.

Follow these easy steps to make that damaged hose as good as new.

1. Turn off the water to the hose -- you certainly don't want to get soaked!

2. Measure the diameter of your hose and purchase the appropriate size garden hose repair kit from a local hardware store or online. These kits cost a lot less than a brand new hose.

3. Remove the damaged hose area with a utility knife so that you now have two sections of hose. Make sure that the two ends of your hose are clean and dry.

4. Insert the male hose attachment into your existing hose. You may need to apply some pressure to get it in there, but if it easily falls out, you know that you have the wrong size. If you are still having trouble, you can try soaking the hose in warm, soapy water so that it becomes more pliable.

5. Once you've fitted the parts together, wrap some plumber's tape around to secure the bond and you're back in business -- ready to water your garden and lawn again.

Remember to keep your hose out of the hot sun to avoid deterioration, and wind it up nicely rather than leaving it tangled and messy. These tips will help avoid wear, keeping your hose intact.