Hose size

[PeterH]

I just saw this in another thread, and have been meaning to ask... Does the input hose size really make a difference? I thought about putting 3/4 inch hoses on my big machines to hurry them along, but several distributors have told me it won't make a difference because the inlet valves only allow a certain flow. What experience have you all had?

[Anonymous]

They can tell you all they want, just do it and you will see for yourself. It made a huge impact on my 75# washers.

[Andy]

The question is : where is the restriction?

If the restriction while using a 3/8 hose is the hose then go up a size. If you are running a 1/2 hose and your inlet is 1/2 then i'd leave it. My guess is that if you are using 3/8 hoses go up in size. We are not talking about a big investment. Or wait until they need replacement. I have to replace my hoses about every 3 yrs or so. Try it then.

I did replace the hoses on my big machines (80#) as kirby and they do fill faster in any event.

[danskines]

Listen to Howie he knows what he is talking about.

[Andy]

Who is "Howie"?

[danskines]

Howard, Howie, is Kirby's real first name....

[Anonymous]

Andy, going to a larger hose than the restriction size WILL increase the flow. While it would be better without the restriction, the small hose acts as a restriction also. A 1" hose going into a 1/2" valve will give you much more flow than a 1/2" hose going into a 1/2" valve. I don't have the time to go into the detail fluid flow calculations with you, but I'm telling you the real deal here.

[Senior Sudsy]

I thought size doesn't matter?

[E&R]

Don't forget about the facuet - restriction there too.

[srhaz]

"Friction Loss" is the real term to use. The larger the inside diameter of the hose, the less friction loss, creating more flow.
Elbows, tees, valves, etc will all create a loss.
Keep your hose as short and straight as needed. A hose 'rolled up' has more loss than a straight one.