Installing an Air Hose Reel
Air hose reels are an important accessory for air compressor hoses. They keep the hoses neatly tucked away when they are not in use. Hoses lying around the work area are prone to gathering dust, dirt, and grime, as well as sustaining damage, as they can be stepped on by the workers, and run over by hand trucks or tool carts. A reliable air hose reel, therefore, is a sound investment that will prolong the service life of your air hose.
You will need to plan ahead before you can mount an air hose reel taking into consideration your peculiar situation and needs. You will need to make a few measurements and decide exactly where you want to install the reel.
Your hose reel will need to match the measurements of your air hose, so if you do not yet have one, it is time you decide what size you need. Hose reels are generally designed to fit a specific hose size. You do not want a reel that cannot accommodate the entire length of your air hose either because it is too long or too large in terms of its diameter.
Mounting a hose reel above eye-level may not be necessary but it is often convenient as it is kept out of the way, yet it is within reach. Look for a solid and sturdy anchor that can take the combined weight of the reel and the hose. Rafters, wall studs, or ceiling joists can be utilized for this purpose.
When possible install the reel in the center of the garage or shop, if not, look for the nearest possible place. In this way you can access all corners of the garage with the least length of hose. When using the air hose, be sure that it is not fully extended out of the reel. The pressure inside the hose can damage the reel causing its winding mechanism to malfunction. This can also cause the hose connections to be torn apart from each other.