hose-reel-installation-and-operation-guide

To ensure optimal performance and safety, hose reels - used for firefighting or various industrial applications - must be correctly selected, installed, and maintained. This guide provides all the essential steps and considerations from A to Z.

1. Overview of Hose Reels

A hose reel is a fixed or mobile frame designed to neatly store and rapidly deploy hoses that convey water, steam, chemicals or compressed air.

Common applications include:

  • Firefighting

  • Vehicle washing

  • Industrial cleaning

  • Agricultural irrigation

  • Compressed-air distribution

2. Hose Reel Classifications

2.1 By Rewind Mechanism

  • Manual Reel: Hand-crank operation

  • Spring-Retract Reel: Self-retracting via internal spring

  • Motorised Reel: Powered rewind

2.2 By Application

  • Fire Hose Reel

  • Garden/Water Hose Reel

  • Chemical-Resistant Reel

  • Air Hose Reel

3. Selection Criteria

  1. Hose Material – PVC, synthetic rubber or PTFE, selected for compatibility with pressure, temperature and chemical media.

  2. Hose Diameter & Length – Sized to deliver required flow rates and system pressure.

  3. Rewind Mechanism – Choose spring-retract or motorised reels for frequent use to reduce operator fatigue.

  4. Frame & Mounting Bracket – Galvanised steel, stainless steel or powder-coated finish for corrosion and impact resistance.

  5. Inlet Connection – Standard BSP or NPT threaded fittings, or flanged connections, plus a safety shut-off valve.

  6. Fire-Safety Standards – For fire reels, ensure compliance with TCVN (Vietnam Standards) and local firefighting regulations.

4. Installation Instructions

4.1 Location Selection

  • Mount near the water source or main pump for quick access in emergencies.

  • Install the reel at a height of 1.0–1.2 m above the floor.

  • Avoid areas subject to extreme temperatures, moisture or chemical exposure.

4.2 Securing the Mounting Bracket

  • Drill into concrete or steel structure and use appropriate anchors.

  • Ensure the bracket can support the wet-hose weight and pull forces.

4.3 Connecting the Supply Line

  • Install a shut-off valve upstream of the reel for pressure control.

  • Seal all fittings with PTFE tape or heat-resistant gaskets and tighten to specification.

4.4 Initial Inspection

  • Open the inlet valve and check all joints for leaks.

  • Extend and retract the hose fully to verify smooth operation of the rewind mechanism or snap-lock.

5. Operating Instructions

(Especially for Fire Hose Reels)

  1. Deploy the Reel – Quickly remove the reel assembly from its cabinet or housing.

  2. Connect the Nozzle – Pull out the hose, attach the nozzle to the supply coupling or fire pump outlet.

  3. Position & Discharge – Extend the hose to the fire area, hold the nozzle firmly, and open the valve to begin water flow.

  4. Stow the Hose – After extinguishing, close the valve. Retract the hose by releasing the latch or turning the hand crank evenly to prevent kinks.

> Tip: For spring-retract reels, pull the hose to the full-extend position, then release the catch to allow a controlled rewind.

6. Maintenance & Periodic Inspection

  • Monthly: Inspect couplings, shut-off valves and hose for cracks or abrasions.

  • Quarterly: Cycle the reel through full extension and retraction; listen for unusual spring or motor noises.

  • Annually: Perform pressure calibration; verify fire-reel compliance with firefighting standards; replace gaskets and lubricate bearings.

  • Immediately: Replace damaged hose, repair frame or renew spring/motor components if any defect is found.

7. Extended Applications & Installations

  • Manufacturing Plants & Workshops: Delivery of compressed air, oil or chemicals.

  • Fuel Stations & Hazardous Storage: Antistatic, flame-retardant reels.

  • High-Rise Buildings & Shopping Malls: Fixed firefighting reel networks on each floor.

  • Agriculture & Landscaping: Irrigation and equipment wash-down reels.

8. Ordering from QTE Technologies

Now that you’re equipped with best practices for selecting and installing hose reels, purchase your solutions from QTE Technologies - the world’s premier MRO provider. Since 2010, we’ve supplied over one million products to industrial and scientific customers across more than 180 countries. Our 24×7 support team is available via live chat, telephone, WhatsApp or email. Discover customer testimonials on our dedicated review portal.

Post Author By QTE Technologies Editorial Staff (with a solid background in both technical and creative writing - accumulated 15+ years of experience).