Are you looking for the simplest solution for your watering needs? Garden hose quick connectors can take the hassle out of gardening by letting you attach and detach your hose in no time.
In my opinion, the overall best garden hose quick connect is the Eley Garden Hose Quick Connect. I tested out all 7 connects I mention below with different garden hoses, but this quick connect from Eley stood out for plenty of reasons. This diverse set allows you to customize the plug and socket quantities to your needs. It is also durable, long-lasting, and straightforward to use, and I’m still using it to this day.
In this garden hose quick connect reviews guide, I look at the leading models and help you decide if they’re suitable for your garden. So let’s begin!
Contents
- 1 In A Rush? Here Are Our Picks
- 2 7 Best Garden Hose Quick Connect Fittings
- 2.1 Eley Garden Hose Quick Connect – Best Overall
- 2.2 GORILLA EASY CONNECT ¾ Inch Solid Brass Quick Connect Fittings – Best Option For Reduced Mobility
- 2.3 GORILLA EASY CONNECT Quick Connect Fittings With Ball Valve – Best Option With Ball Valve
- 2.4 PLG ¾ Inch Garden Hose Quick Connector Fittings – Best Budget Option
- 2.5 Claber 8458 Connector – Best For Hot Climates
- 2.6 Melnor 65098-AMZ QuickConnect – Most Versatile Option
- 2.7 Orbit 58285N Hose Shut-Off Connector – Best Option With Water Stop
- 3 Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best Garden Hose Quick Connect For Your Garden
- 4 FAQs
- 5 The Best Garden Hose Quick Connect For Your Needs
- 6 About The Author
In A Rush? Here Are Our Picks
Let’s take a quick glance at the products we will talk about here.
7 Best Garden Hose Quick Connect Fittings
Eley Garden Hose Quick Connect – Best Overall
- Leak-proof, resistant to pressure, and durable against the elements.
- User-friendly design with customizable sizes.
- Includes a 10-year warranty.
The Eley Garden Hose Quick Connect is the overall best option. Although it isn’t the cheapest garden hose connector, it has many excellent features that could make it worth the financial investment.
One of the best features of this connector set that I noticed right off the bat is that you can customize the number of plugs and sockets. So, since I wouldn’t use all of the connectors the set comes with, I only needed to buy the ones I’d actually utilize.
The Eley Quick Connect set is also incredibly durable. It has a lead-free, brass construction with stainless steel sliders and an O-ring style gasket. These features ensure that the connectors can resist internal pressure, prevent leaks, and avoid external damage, like corrosion.
This quick connect set can withstand a higher than average pressure of 160 psi. It also has good performance in warmer climates, handling up to 165°F (74°C). However, the connectors do not perform well in freezing conditions, and the water may not flow properly. So, you should only use them when the temperature is above 32°F (0°C).
It comes with a 10-year warranty, one of the longest on the market. So, even if you are investing more at the outset, you can get a replacement if your quick connect starts leaking.
This option also works perfectly with no-kink garden hoses like the Eley Garden Hose. And if you want to round out your Eley quick connect set, you may also like the ELEY Hose Reel, which is one of the best hose reels I’ve used.
PROS
- Durable design
- Customizable
- Extended warranty
CONS
- A bit expensive
- Not suitable for freezing climates
GORILLA EASY CONNECT ¾ Inch Solid Brass Quick Connect Fittings – Best Option For Reduced Mobility
- One-handed design for people with lower mobility.
- Can handle medium to high water pressure indoors or outdoors.
- Leak-free and durable outer design.
The GORILLA EASY CONNECT ¾ Inch Solid Brass Quick Connect Fittings set is the best option for people with reduced mobility. Each connect adapter can click in and out of place with just one hand, making them ideal for people with arthritis or other movement problems. I gifted this one to a friend of mine whose mother is dealing with arthritis, and she’s still using it with ease regularly.
These quick connectors have a solid brass construction, making them resistant to rust and corrosion. They also can withstand pressure up to 200 psi, more than the average at this price range. However, you still shouldn’t use them for pressure washers.
The quick connect set comes with two male and two female connectors, allowing you to use them both inside and outside. The female connectors have ridged edges to provide greater traction and the male connectors have vertical knurling for improved grip. Therefore, out of all the quick connects I’ve reviewed, it is one of the most versatile options that you can find at this price point.
The main downside of these quick connect fittings is that they have limited compatibility. You can only use them with other GORILLA EASY CONNECT products. So, they may not be the best option if you don’t own other branded items.
Overall, this quick connector set is reliable and easy to use. If you struggle to use regular hose connections, it could be the right choice.
PROS
- Suitable for higher water pressure
- User-friendly
- Indoor and outdoor use
CONS
- Limited compatibility
GORILLA EASY CONNECT Quick Connect Fittings With Ball Valve – Best Option With Ball Valve
- User-friendly connection design and ball valve.
- Durable construction that can resist internal pressure and external damage.
- Suitable for people with mobility issues.
The GORILLA EASY CONNECT Quick Connect Fittings with Ball Valve set is an excellent choice for gardeners. The ball valve means that you can switch off the water flow without touching the main tap or disconnecting the connect adapter. I really liked this feature while testing this with one of my longer garden hoses.
Like other GORILLA EASY CONNECT products, this set is suitable for people with mobility problems, as you can attach and detach the fittings with one hand. The ball valve is also easy to turn with a single hand. So, it can reduce pain if you have arthritis or other conditions.
It is made of durable brass and can withstand an internal pressure of 200 psi. The internal o-rings are high quality and ensure no leaks, even at these higher pressures. As I found out during my testing, you can use this both inside and outside.
The main drawback of this quick connector set is that you can only use it with other GORILLA EASY CONNECT products. It doesn’t have compatibility with other fittings, so you may end up spending more money.
Furthermore, it only offers a one-year warranty. If you want more assurance that your product will last in the long term, it may not be your best option.
PROS
- Ball valve
- Durable design
- Straightforward to use
CONS
- No compatibility with other brands
- Short warranty period
PLG ¾ Inch Garden Hose Quick Connector Fittings – Best Budget Option
The PLG ¾ Inch Garden Hose Quick Connector set is the best budget-friendly option. It includes two male and two female quick connects at an affordable price, compared to the other connects I tested. So, if you are a casual gardener or short on cash, this set could be an excellent choice.
The quick connectors can safely handle up to 60 psi, more than enough for most watering needs. However, you should avoid any higher pressure or it could break the connect adapter. The fitting almost broke off while I was testing this out, so it’s not the best option in terms of internal durability.
Each connector snaps easily into place and has a quick-release system for rapid disconnection. You don’t need to screw or otherwise twist the fittings, making them ideal for those who have mobility problems.
You can use them with a variety of garden hoses and accessories, including sprayers, sprinklers, and hose nozzles. They also include rubber grips that make them easy to handle and join with your watering tools.
These quick connect fittings also lack some external durability. They are made of aluminum instead of brass, and some users report rust and corrosion over time. So, if you want to invest in fittings for the long term, these probably aren’t the best choice.
Overall, this set is affordable but not the most durable. It can be a great option in the short term and for occasional use, so you should consider if that will be suitable for your gardening needs.
PROS
- Value for money
- User-friendly grips
- Compatible with garden hoses and accessories
CONS
- Not suitable for high-pressure systems
- Lack durability
Claber 8458 Connector – Best For Hot Climates
- Good performance with hot water and climates.
- Click on and off design for user-friendly use.
- Excellent value for money.
The Claber 8458 Connector set is the best quick connector for hot climates. The connectors can safely withstand outside temperatures of 104°F (40℃) and water temperatures of 122°F (50℃), so you can use them with hot water or in full sunlight. I tested this one out on a really hot summer afternoon and it had no issue with hot water.
They have a user-friendly design that clicks on and off to your faucet and hose. This movement doesn’t require twisting or other wrist movements, so it could be beneficial if you have arthritis or other issues.
They are made of ABS plastic with UV stabilization. This treatment allows the connectors to withstand full sunlight without warping the plastic or damaging its integrity. Although it isn’t as durable as brass, it can handle most weather conditions.
You should be mindful that these quick connectors are not suitable for medium or high-pressure water systems. They are only safety tested at 145 psi, and using them at higher pressures could break them.
But, admittedly, even 60 psi is good enough to water your garden. For reference, most home faucets have an average pressure of 40-60 psi, according to Swan, a watering company that’s been around for more than 95 years. So, at 60 psi, your garden hose will have a water flow similar to your faucet, which is sufficient for your watering needs.
Furthermore, the set only has a male faucet adaptor and a male hose connector. It doesn’t have any female connections, so you should check if that design is compatible with your hose accessories.
Overall, these budget-friendly quick connectors have a simple design and decent performance in most conditions. They’re not the most durable options, but they should get the job done for many people.
PROS
- Good tolerance in hot weather
- Budget-friendly
- Simple to use
CONS
- No female connectors
- Not suitable for high-pressure systems
Melnor 65098-AMZ QuickConnect – Most Versatile Option
- Versatile set with multiple adapters.
- Budget-friendly with an extended warranty period.
- User-friendly with a water stop feature.
The Melnor 65098-AMZ QuickConnect is the most versatile option for home gardeners. The set comes with six different pieces, including four product adapters and two hose end connectors. With these, you can connect your hose to the faucet and a variety of accessories. This was one of my favorite sets to test out because of how versatile it is.
One handy feature of these connectors is the in-built water stop. This design element means that you can detach your hose without the water spraying everywhere. So, it could save you from getting soaked if you need to disconnect your hose in a hurry.
Even though this set is one of the most affordable options, it also has one of the most extended warranties. Melnor offers a seven-year guarantee, one of the highest in the industry. If you want to purchase a product you can trust in the long term, it could be a suitable choice. I’ve had this set for a couple of years now, and it’s still working great. But I only use it occasionally, as I prefer the connects from Eley.
Like other quick connector products, the Melnor set is straightforward to use. It has a snap design that means you can push and pull the fittings into place without twisting your wrist. So, if you struggle to turn standard hose fittings, it could remove some of the strain.
You should know that these quick connectors are not suitable for extreme climates. They have a relatively restrictive safe temperature range from 40°F (4.5°C) to 115°F (46°C). If you try to use them in freezing temperatures, though, they may crack and break.
PROS
- Versatile
- Long warranty period
- In-built water stop
CONS
- Not suitable for extreme climates
Orbit 58285N Hose Shut-Off Connector – Best Option With Water Stop
- In-built water stop to prevent water spraying.
- Can resist internal pressure and some external damage.
- User-friendly design that doesn’t need twisting.
The Orbit 58285N is the best garden hose quick connect with a water stop. This design feature means you can remove your hose from the water or its accessories without it spraying all over you. If you’re in a hurry or struggle to operate the faucet, it could save you from getting wet and wasting water.
This set includes both male and female connectors. It is also compatible with all standard garden hoses, meaning you won’t need to invest in a new model. You can also use it with many hose accessories, making it an overall versatile choice. I wanted to test this out, so I connected it to all of my garden hoses, and it worked perfectly with each one.
Like other user-friendly connectors, the Orbit set doesn’t need you to twist it. The different fittings snap into and out of place, meaning that you need to use minimal effort. If it hurts you to handle standard hose fittings, this feature could spare you some pain and discomfort.
Although Orbit advertises the connectors as solid brass, they are actually stainless steel with a brass coating. This metal makes them less durable and more susceptible to internal and external damage. Still, they are harder than most plastic garden hose quick connects.
Overall, the Orbit set is not the most durable option on the market. Still, it should be suitable for the average gardener. As long as you store the fittings properly and avoid dropping them, they should give you a few years of use.
PROS
- Built-in water stop
- Good resistance to water pressure
- Simple and easy to use
CONS
- Not solid brass
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best Garden Hose Quick Connect For Your Garden
What Is A Garden Hose Quick Connect?
A garden hose quick connect is a fitting that joins your hose to your tap. It fits between the two areas and makes it easier for you to put them together. In addition, it may act as an extension that makes your hose a bit longer without buying a longer one.
A garden hose quick connector may also connect from your hose to your hose accessories. For example, you can use it to attach different hose nozzles or sprayers without having to swap out the fitting. This feature could be helpful if you need to switch between light and heavy water streams.
In either situation, quick connects get their name because you can install and remove them in minimal time. They may snap directly onto your hose or tap, and you can take them off by twisting or pulling the connector.
This design is exactly why I decided to test all these garden hose quick connects out. I noticed that they save you time and are easy to use for people with arthritic hands or other physical limitations.
This design feature makes garden hose quick connects ideal if you want to save time. Because they are easy to connect and disconnect, they also suit people with arthritic hands or other physical limitations.
If you have these limitations, you may also like to consider a lightweight garden hose.
Which Is The Best Garden Hose Quick Connect Material?
Connect garden hose fittings are usually either made with a solid brass construction or plastic. Both of these materials have their advantages and disadvantages, as I found while testing fittings that were made from different materials.
Brass
Solid brass is one of the most popular options for quick connect hose fittings. Gardeners favor it because it is resistant to rust and erosion, according to Industrial Metal Supply Co., a leading US metal supplier. Rust and erosion resistance are essential features if your connects are exposed to moisture and sunlight. Despite leaving out a pair of brass hose connects for a few weeks, they were still as good as new.
It is also durable and can usually withstand external damage and internal pressure. However, you need to be careful that the brass fittings are completely brass, as some garden hose quick connects are weaker metals with brass coloring.
The inside of the brass quick connect also influences its durability. Many models have rubber or synthetic materials inside, which are preferable to plastic. If you choose a fitting with plastic inside, it will be less durable overall.
Plastic
Plastic is the other most popular choice for quick connect hose fittings. It is generally more affordable than brass, but it lacks some durability. So, if you live in an extreme climate with strong heat or cold, I don’t recommend plastic quick connectors.
Some plastic models may include UV protection to prevent sun damage, according to Omnexus by SpecialChem, a leading online database for the plastic industry. However, if you drop the connector on a hard surface, it will likely crack or weaken the fitting. This happened to me when I was testing out some very cheap plastic connects. So this is another factor to consider if you want your quick connect to last in the long term.
How Much Water Pressure Do You Have?
Different garden hose quick connects can handle varying water pressures. For example, cheaper connectors may only be able to sustain 60 psi, while other models are designed for 150 psi or higher.
Psi refers to pounds per square inch, according to ThoughtCo, one of the oldest and largest education resources on the internet. PSI is how you can measure the amount of pressure that the quick connect can withstand. If the water pressure exceeds this number, it may break inside or explode. This almost occurred when I tried higher pressures on some of the connects I tested above.
So, it is crucial to make sure that your chosen quick connect can handle the water pressure at your home. If you have unusually high or low pressure, you will need a connector optimized for those conditions.
What Is The Climate Where You Live?
Suppose you live in a location with boiling-hot summers or freezing winters. In that case, you must also consider these factors when choosing a quick connect.
If you live in a cold location, the temperatures below freezing could damage your quick connector. On the other hand, exposure to the intense sun could also warp or damage the materials.
Therefore, you must check the approved temperature range for your product and see if it matches your climate. You may also protect your quick connect by storing it alongside the rest of your watering tools. The best place to store these is in a temperate environment, like your garden shed, in my opinion. You can find some great garden shed ideas I found while doing research for my blog.
Do You Need A Water Stop?
Some garden hose quick connectors include a no-leak valve that acts as a water stop. This design feature means that if you disconnect your hose, the water will also stop running. So, it can stop you from getting sprayed if you need to pull off your hose before you can turn off the tap.
This isn’t an essential feature, but I think that it could be handy if you want to save water and time during gardening.
Where Will You Attach Your Quick Connect?
You must make sure that your quick connect has male and female connections. The male connection will go into your tap, and the female connector joins with your hose. In a quick connector set, you may have multiple fittings that you can use in different configurations. If you want to learn more about how to use quick connects, I suggest checking this post by Fresh Water Systems, a leader in water treatment and purification.
Do You Need A Warranty?
You can find garden hose quick connects at various price points. However, if you are going to invest a little more, I suggest choosing a model that includes an extended warranty. This guarantee can entitle you to a refund or replacement if your hose fitting stops working or is faulty.
FAQs
What Size Quick Connect For Garden Hose?
¾ inch quick connects are the most common size for garden hoses. They join to your outdoor faucet that is usually ¾ inches in diameter. The other side of the quick connect may be ¾ or ⅝ inch to join with your garden hose.
What Size Is A Standard Water Hose Fitting?
A standard water hose fitting is ⅝ inch in diameter. Still, you can find high water flow hoses with a diameter of ¾ inch or cheaper models with ½ inch. You must ensure that hose fittings are the same size as your hose, or you will need an adapter.
The Best Garden Hose Quick Connect For Your Needs
In conclusion, the Eley Garden Hose Quick is the overall best garden hose quick connect. It has a durable brass construction that protects it against rust and damage. I thoroughly tested this one out, and I’m still using it today! This fitting is also very versatile, compatible with many garden hoses and accessories, and easy to use.
The Melnor 65098-AMZ QuickConnect is another excellent option if you are looking for versatility. It is a six-piece set with various adaptors that allows you to use it with different garden hoses and accessories. It is also durable and includes a water stop feature.
Overall, garden hose quick connectors could be an excellent investment if you have mobility problems or you want to save time while gardening. They can snap into place and make your watering faster and less stressful.
Which garden hose quick connect will you choose? Let me know in the comments section below.
About The Author
Last update on 2024-04-19 at 14:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API