5 Best Retractable Air Hose Reel Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

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Are you looking for the best retractable air hose reel at the most reasonable price? If so, you are in the right place!

You need to be well-informed when it comes to buying tools for your home or work. For instance, getting a cheap air hose reel with a flashy model is not a smart idea. Or, choosing a plain, tawdry model and thinking of that to be sturdier is unwise too.

A retractable air hose reel with a red and black casing is positioned on concrete, with a wooden structure in the background.

As a result, just looking at the appearance is never adequate to know how featureful or durable a reel actually will be. Hence, to buy one for your use, it is good to take an expert’s help.

We have spent hours researching the best retractable hose reels. This made us experts about it. We have gathered important information that you need to know before buying the unit. We aim to help you make the best use of your money.

  • GOODYEAR Steel Retractable Hose Reel

  • Flexzilla Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel

  • ReelWorks 27807153A Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel

  • ReelWorks 27807153A Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel

    Giraffe Tools TA15B Retractable Air Hose Reel

  • ReelWorks L705102A Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel

  • GOODYEAR Steel Retractable Hose Reel

    GOODYEAR Steel Retractable Hose Reel

    What We Liked Most About This Product

    This is undoubtedly the best-rated retractable air hose reel if you need an air product with versatile benefits.

    This unit from Goodyear comes with a 50-foot hose, which is perfect for working in the distance. The air hose is constructed with high-quality materials giving you more flexibility.

    This hefty amount of product is constructed with a heavy-duty steel frame. This steel frame is not only durable but also coated with a powder coating. The powder coating prevents it from corrosion and makes it stronger.

    As a result, it also functions great in a location with extreme temperatures and adverse weather. Moreover, you don’t need to worry about what harm would moisture do to it.

    Product Overview

    It was hard for us to allocate a single retractable air hose reel in the first position because there are so many of them! But this product made us enough impressed to clear out the confusion. Here are the most talking features.

    Firstly, this Goodyear hose reel is assembled and manufactured in the USA, although the reel is made in China. It is our best pick because of the hose included.

    Secondly, the base is engineered to be mounted on various surfaces. It also includes a changeable hose stop so that you can pull out your desired length of hose.

    You can also adjust the guide arms up to 90 degrees. Also, the ratcheting reel with 12 positions allows the hose to be locked.

    Opposite to lower quality plastic reels, this hose reel will not crack, break or deform its shape even when used in areas with corrosive liquids or oils. It is designed for use in temperatures ranging from -40 to 190 degrees to ensure smooth operation.

    Finally, although a few people complain about the end of the hose, it can be solved out effortlessly by re-crimping the original hose end. You can just buy a hose end and reassemble it. These advantages are what make the best retractable air hose reel.

    In the end, if you are hunting for the best equipment, then you must check it out for yourself. Considering the price, service, and quality are very decent.

    Pros

    • Heavy-duty and long-lasting product.
    • It comes with 100 feet of hose.
    • The hose is designed to pivot.

    Cons

    • It cannot be attached to the wall.
    • The structure is quite heavy.

    Flexzilla Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel

    Flexzilla Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel

    What We Liked Most About This Product

    This air hose reel from Flexzilla did justice to its name. They did a bang-up job in the flexibility game, for which it is one of the best and top-rated retractable air hose reels.

    This product includes a hose of 50 feet and is intended to be attached to your workshop’s walls, ceiling, or floor. It gives you a switch-hitting function if you need to change the location of your work. It is versatile enough to comply with your ease of access.

    It also contains a hose plug. This plug is engineered to fasten the hose after every 18-inch portion. No surplus hose will get in your way while working.

    Overall, this hose is made to be more flexible than most others. It does not have any memory. For this reason, it lies flat when idle. This feature helps to prevent the hose from being crumpled.

    In a word, this product is a must-try if you like to work with a flexible yet durable type of equipment.

    Product Overview

    One of the brass tacks of this hose is its ability to stay flexible even in extreme temperatures. From -40 degrees to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, it will hold the standards it offers.

    Also, flexibility does not downturn with time. The mounting bracket does rotate to complete 180 degrees.

    Secondly, the structure is made with a polymer material that hangs from the ceiling or wall on a pivoting mount bracket. The anodized aircraft aluminum fittings are high-quality and long-lasting. The locks function at every 18-inch gap.

    Also, this equipment can handle severe pressure, which is 150 PSI at maximum. For which, it becomes a solid gold for workshops.

    There’s one complaint that automatic retract doesn’t act appropriately. However, you can easily fine-tune the spring force when the product arrives, and it will never be an issue.

    Finally, this is one of the best for a garage at home, but not commendable for everyday rough use in industrial operations. This is an A-1 option for small working areas as it is an adjustable product designed with long-lasting materials.

    Pros

    • Made of long-lasting materials.
    • Joints can easily revolve around 180 degrees.
    • It contains aluminum fittings that are anodized and used in aircraft.

    Cons

    • The hose gets dirty easily.
    • Can take pressure 150 PSI at maximum.

    ReelWorks 27807153A Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel

    ReelWorks 27807153A Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel

    What We Liked Most About This Product

    The ReelWorks 27807153A plastic retractable air compressor/water hose reel is undoubtedly one of the best retractable air hose reels.

    Although it may seem like other common plastic air hose reels, it holds some distinct features for which it becomes one of the best picks.

    The locking mechanism automatically latches at the expected length of the hose. Also, the newly designed swivel bracket can be attached to the walls and ceiling.

    The inlet bracket allows 180-degree rotation without any struggle.

    So, do not get fooled by the plastic look it has; it may beat other air hose reels in strength and performance.

    Product Overview

    It comes with an automatic hose guiding system that lets you an automatic rewinding of the hose. Also, it does it in an orderly way, which makes the coiling so smooth. The 50-foot hose feels like rubber but is thin and flexible.

    This spring-driven hose reel features a superior bend radius as well as a hybrid polymer. It has no memory, which prevents kinks. It is the hose inlet, which prevents it from getting leaked.

    For locking, the new and improved ratchets have double adjustment action. It easily locks the hose at your desired length.

    Though the retraction mechanism is very strongly built, it is quite easy to use. Constructed using high-quality impact-resistant polypropylene, this unit is lightweight.

    Moreover, it is designed as a compact, which helps more mounting options in those limited spaces. The reel is compact yet is big enough to hold 50 feet of ⅜ inch-long hose, effortlessly!

    This unit can provide you with its standard services, even at 14 to 149 degrees Fahrenheit. It can also hold pressure up to 300 psi, which is quite good enough for regular base use.

    Pros

    • Automatic rewinding of hose smoothly.
    • Great bend radius of the hose.
    • Long-lasting.

    Cons

    • Stopping mechanisms may not always work properly.

    Giraffe Tools TA15B Retractable Air Hose Reel

    Giraffe Tools TA15B Retractable Air Hose Reel - Gardeners Yards

    What We Like About This Product

    The Giraffe Tools TA15B stands out for its automatic rewind feature, offering a hassle-free retraction of the hose. Its all-steel construction with solid brass fittings ensures durability and longevity.

    Product Overview

    Featuring a 50 + 3ft hybrid air hose, this reel is designed for all-weather flexibility, making it ideal for year-round use. The unique hose guide and lock system prevent kinking and tangling, extending the hose’s life. With a working pressure of 300PSI, this reel is suitable for home DIY and industrial applications.

    Pros

    • Automatic rewind for easy hose management.
    • Durable construction with a corrosion-resistant finish.
    • All-weather flexible hybrid hose suitable for extreme temperatures.
    • Hose guide and lock system to reduce wear and tear.
    • Two-year warranty with excellent customer support.

    Cons

    • There is no mention of ease of hose replacement.

    Verdict
    The Giraffe Tools TA15B Retractable Air Hose Reel is a robust and user-friendly option for those seeking a reliable and efficient air hose management system. Its durability and flexibility make it a valuable addition to any workspace.

    ReelWorks L705102A Air Compressor/Water Hose Reel

    What We Liked Most About This Product

    Don’t get deceived by the fact that we enlisted this as the last one because it has some top-notch features that you need to check out.

    If you need a hose reel in a light and compact shape, this one will be perfect for you. This ReelWorks Plastic air hose reel is built with high-quality, durable polypropylene, which is lightweight and more compressed.

    The ReelWorks Reel comes with a long hybrid flex polymer hose. This reel is made to be suitable for both compressed air and water usage. As a result, you are getting a two-in-one device at such a low cost.

    Also, the reel is robust and sturdy, although it is constructed with a hybrid polymer. It diminishes the chance of breaking or getting creviced. This is a heavy-duty product with a structure of the plastic.

    Product Overview

    Well, let’s talk about the hose first. This ¼ inch hybrid polymer hose will not be as floppy or flexible as Goodyear rubber hoses but holds pretty much close features. But what can we expect more at such a reasonable price, right?

    With a super bend radius, this 33-foot Hybrid Flex Polymer hose is free from kinks.

    This hose can operate placidly even in the lowest of temperatures of -40 degrees to highest 80 degrees Celcius. Whether you use it for air or water, the service remains the same as always.

    Now comes the reel.

    This is built using high-quality impact-resistant polypropylene, which promotes more extended use. Though this unit is strong and sturdy, the weight is very light. It does have a strong structure because it can hold up to 180 PSI pressure effortlessly.

    What about the Bracket? The bracket was made of steel with a fine powder coating finish to prevent it from rusting. You can mount it on the wall or ceiling as per your wish. Also, it will rotate 180 degrees smoothly.

    The retract spring and ratchet mechanism work smoothly and struggle-free. The performance is more like other professional or industrial reels, and it’s incredible. The reel pretty much locks its position if you stop pulling before a set of clicks has passed.

    Pros

    • The structure is strong and made for heavy duty.
    • Superior bend radius of the hose.
    • Automatic locks of a hose at the desired length.

    Cons

    • Ratchet does not work sometimes.
    • Better for occasional usage.

    Retractable Air Hose Reel Buying Guide

    In the market, different types of hose reels are available for coiling up different hoses. The parts that matter the most are the reel, hose, and bracket. These are the facts you have to keep in mind before buying a hose reel:

    Retractable reels or manual crank reels?

    Well, classic manual reels have always been handy, dependable products for workshop tasks. They are quite efficient and need low maintenance also.

    Still, we suggest you go for retractable models. These provide you with ease of use and higher safety regarding the reel’s mounting on the ceiling.

    Reel Construction

    Some reels are constructed with metal all over. These are supposed to last for several years.

    On the other hand, the plastic-constructed air hose reels can be for heavy-duty too, but not commendable for industrial functions. These plastic reels are okay for your home garage.

    Hose length

    Normally, you may need the hose for garage functioning, so a short-length hose will work fine. For outside use, you will need a longer hose. Common hoses are a minimum of 50 feet long. It all depends strongly on your preferences though.

    Working pressure

    On average home usage, needs to have a withstand pressure of 300 PSI. If you want to use the product for meeting business purposes, a higher PSI would be required.

    Weight

    It is recommended to look for a heavy-duty hose with a reel made of quality materials. Big and bulky reels are made to use for the long term.

    The Bracket

    The reel bracket is really important as it holds the total weight of the reel and hose. It should be a strong reel made of good materials to keep the unit stable when the reel swivels around it.

    You don’t want the reel to come off the bracket or break the bracket due to fast swiveling.

    Things to know to handle a hose reel properly

    The following points will be of great use to you even if you are an expert because these will remind you of certain little yet effective facts to consider.

    Recommended places to mount the unit

    Contemporary hose reels are all about having a vast range of mounting options. Classic wall and bench options are fine, but those may encounter issues regarding safety.

    Nowadays, the workshops are mounting their reels on ceilings. This prevents tripping over the reels and gives you the ease of access while the hose cascades down.

    Fortunately, almost all the products we have reviewed here can be installed on the floor, wall, or ceiling. Let us presume you may need to change the position of the mounting from time to time. In this case, a sturdy hose reel with a versatile mounting ability will be needed.

    Installing the reel

    Don’t install the bracket directly near your compressor because you need some distance for the free movement of the hose. Place the bracket carefully, level to the surface, and mark it before drilling through it.

    Put the masonry plugs into the holes. Use high-quality screws for mounting the bracket for swift and shake-free swiveling. Now you can easily insert the hose reel on the bracket, and the hose reel is ready for use.

    Taking care of the hose

    Did you know? A pinhole-sized leak in the hose can waste about 170 gallons of water in just one day!

    The hoses mentioned are of high quality, but a little care never hurts. It can also serve you for more years to come if you mind its p’s and q’s.

    After finishing work, make sure there is no air or water left in the hose. Keep the rubber hose out of sunlight because it can harm the flexibility.

    Usage of the air hose reel

    Air hose reels are used for airing tires, filling gas cylinders, nailing, etc. But it does not necessarily mean that you can use it for air purposes only.

    We have also mentioned reels with versatile air hoses that work well with water. You may install the reel for watering and irrigating your garden.

    Questions and Answers

    How to Repair a Retractable Hose Reel?

    The thing that you need to repair in most cases after some time of usage is to tighten the loose screws and replace missing ones.

    How does a retractable air hose reel work

    The way it works is very simple. The hose is rolled up on the reel. Using an automatic mechanism or a handle, we can roll the hose up and out.

    Can I mount a retractable air hose reel on a wall?

    Yes, most of the models have special holes to put the screws and mount it on a wall.

    Can I buy a retractable air hose reel without a hose?

    It depends on the seller, but many of them offer to purchase both with or without the hose. I always recommend asking the seller for such an option because not all of them include this information in their product description.

    Final Thoughts

    Choosing the best retractable air hose reel is a great challenge as there are ample opportunities, right? But actually, it becomes a lot easier when you know your requirements well. Adjusting your needs to the information and features mentioned in this review should make it easier.

    Choose the mounting location of the unit like wall, floor, or ceiling. Decide upon the terms and usage of the unit. Before buying the one that is perfect for your requirements, have a glance at this review.

    Usually, an air hose reel is just a tool to keep your air hose organized. But the retractable mechanism has raised the bar high in respect of convenience. And, nothing is more suitable than a reel which not only stores your air hose but also saves your time!

    Read More

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