How Do You Drain a Water Hose?

The easiest way to drain a water hose completely is to hold one end up high and walk down its length, allowing gravity to pull the water out.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining a Water Hose

Disconnect the Hose: Detach the hose from both the water source (faucet) and any attached nozzle or sprinkler.
Elevate One End: Hold one end of the hose as high as you can reach. This will create a significant elevation difference, maximizing the effect of gravity.
Walk Down the Hose: Slowly walk down the length of the hose while maintaining the elevated end. As you walk, the water will naturally flow downhill towards the open, lower end. You can gently shake or wiggle the hose to dislodge any stubborn pockets of water.
Repeat if Necessary: If the hose is particularly long or has kinks, you might need to repeat the process, starting at different points along the hose's length.
Coil for Storage (After Draining): Once the hose is largely drained, coil it loosely for storage. This prevents kinks and prolongs the hose's life. Consider a hose reel or hanger for organized storage.

Prevents Freezing: Water left inside the hose can freeze in cold weather, potentially causing it to crack or burst.
Reduces Mold/Algae Growth: Standing water can encourage the growth of mold, algae, and other undesirable organisms inside the hose.
Extends Hose Lifespan: Proper draining and storage can significantly extend the lifespan of your garden hose.

While the "walking down the hose" method is generally the most effective, here are a couple of alternative approaches:

Using a Slope: If you have a sloped surface available, lay the hose along the slope with the open end at the bottom. Gravity will do the work.
Compressed Air (Carefully): In rare cases, you could use very low-pressure compressed air to blow out the remaining water. However, be extremely cautious as excessive pressure can damage the hose. This is generally not recommended.

By following these steps, you can efficiently drain your water hose, preventing damage and ensuring it's ready for its next use.