How to Repair a Retractable Hose Reel

Many problems that may arise up with your retractable hose reel can be easily repaired. You will need to diagnose the problem, then follow the appropriate steps to correct it. To prevent malfunctions and breakage, go over the cart regularly to tighten loose bolts and connectors, instead of waiting until something breaks. The importance of doing regular maintenance cannot be overstated, and it could help you avoid problems that result in more costly repairs and replacement.

Step 1 - Repair the Cabinet

Examine the case of your retractable hose reel carefully. Replace missing screws and tighten loose ones. If the mounting brackets have become loose, tighten them as well. In some cases, the hose reel may need to be relocated slightly, to account for stripped mounting screw holes. You probably won't need to make repairs to the case or cabinet very often, but it will be necessary eventually. This is one of those situations where an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.

Step 2 - Check Washers and Fittings

The most common problems with garden hose reels are due to improper joint seals. The female end of hoses and other connectors require a small flat washer that is notorious for becoming lost. Additionally, these washers become compressed over time, and no longer function as well as they should. The old washer can be removed with a flat screwdriver, and the new ones snap easily into place. Fittings and connectors will occasionally warp or crack, and the factory fittings must be replaced. For garden hoses, there are replacement fittings available at the hardware store that can be installed with little more than a utility knife and a screwdriver.

Step 3 - Repair and Replacement

The next most common water hose reel cart problem has more to do with the hose than the reel. Occasionally, hoses will get cut, or pinched, resulting in a leak. To repair it, pick up a straight coupling of the proper size at your local hardware store. Cut out the damaged section of hose and insert the connector between the two sides. Tighten the coupling down with a screwdriver, and then test it to make sure the leak is fully repaired. If the damage is too extensive, it may be more realistic to replace the entire hose. Most water hose reels use typical screw-on connectors, so replacing the hose will only take a couple of minutes. For better, faster results, allow both the old and new hoses to warm up in direct sunlight.

Step 4 - Do Preventive Maintenance

The best kind of maintenance is the kind that is done before a problem arises. If you inspect the hose reel before every use, and make any minor repairs that may be required, you can eliminate most major problems. Tighten or replace missing screws as you find them, without waiting until the screw falls out. Replace connectors that no longer offer a complete seal. Make sure that mounting screws aren't slipping, and that the hose reel is still safely secured to the wall or ceiling.