Irrigation hoses, also known as soaker hoses, are an effective alternative to sprinklers, which can lose as much as 20 percent of their water through evaporation.  And in drought-stricken Austin, that’s definitely a plus.

As they age, however, irrigation hoses can become torn or kinked.  The good news is that you can repair the hose simply by removing the damaged portion.

Turn on hose

To fix a damaged hose, you’ll first need to turn it on to locate the damage.  Mark the damage by placing a piece of duct tape over the tear.  Then shut the water off at the source and allow the hose to drain.

Cut off damaged portion

Cut the hose in two pieces at the point just behind where you marked the hose with duct tape. Even out the cut by scraping the end of the hose with a utility knife.

Refit with proper hose end

Insert the correct hose end fitting into the cut end of the hose.  The fitting you choose should be identical to the one you removed when you cut the hose in two.  Hose fittings are sold as either male or female.

Clamp hose end down

Place a hose end clamp around the end of the hose and the fitting.  Push screws into the screw slots that are used to tighten the clamp in place.  Tighten screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

South Austin Irrigation specializes in irrigation system repair and service.