How to winterize a hose reel with a tire inflator

You will learn to push trapped water out of a reeled garden hose using a portable tire inflator and a tapered pinch valve adapter. It suits anyone storing a hose reel outdoors over winter. You need a cordless or portable inflator, the adapter, and access to the hose reel connection.

How to Winterize a Hose Reel Without Unrolling It! (Tire Inflator Hack), by Timur Kholodenko (Todivetoday) on YouTube. 2 min 19 s.

Video length
2 min 19 s
Time to do it
5 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
6

What you need

Steps

  1. Disconnect the hose reel from the outdoor spigot. Remove any spray nozzle or end fitting from the far end so air can escape freely.

  2. Fit the tapered pinch valve adapter onto the nozzle of your portable tire inflator. Push it on firmly so it does not pop off under pressure.

  3. Press the adapter into the feeder hose connection on the reel. Hold it straight and push firmly to create an airtight seal.

  4. Keep the adapter pressed in and squeeze the inflator trigger. Air will push the trapped water out of the open end of the hose.

  5. Watch the open hose end and keep going until no more water comes out. Stop when the spray turns to dry air.

  6. Tip any water out of the reel housing or tray. Wipe the reel dry, then store it indoors or under cover for winter.

Tips and common mistakes

Point the open hose end away from you, pets and walls, and wear eye protection because the first burst can spray dirty water.

Press the adapter in firmly; a leaking seal slows draining and can make the adapter pop off.

Use normal tire-inflator pressure and keep the far end open. Never trap air in a closed hose.

Store the reel indoors or under cover even after draining, as a little water can remain in the housing.

Questions

Can I use any tire inflator for this?

Yes, a portable car or cordless tire inflator with a tapered pinch valve adapter should work. The method needs a firm seal, not a special brand.

Do I have to unroll the hose?

No. Keep the hose on the reel and let the air push the water out of the open far end.

What if water keeps trickling out?

Check that the far end nozzle is fully removed and that the adapter is pressed in tight. A small leak at the adapter will reduce the airflow.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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