Air tools are a staple in many workshops, garages, and construction sites, but they are only as good as the air hose that delivers the compressed air. A high-quality air hose reel can help you keep your workspace organized, protect your air hose from damage, and extend the life of your air tools.
When shopping for the best air hose reel, there are several factors to consider. The first is the size of the air hose that you will be using. Most air hose reels are designed to hold hoses that are 50 feet or longer, but some can accommodate shorter hoses as well. You’ll also want to consider the diameter of the hose, as some reels are only compatible with certain sizes.
Another important consideration is the type of mounting that the reel requires. Some models are designed to be mounted on a wall or ceiling, while others can be mounted on a cart or truck bed. The type of mounting that you choose will depend on your workspace and your specific needs.
Finally, you’ll want to consider the quality of the reel itself. Look for a model that is made from durable materials like steel or aluminum, and make sure that the reel is designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
After researching and testing several models, we’ve identified the best air hose reels on the market. These reels are designed to be easy to use, durable, and versatile, making them a great addition to any workspace that relies on air tools.
Best Air Hose Reels
If you’re looking for a way to keep your air hose organized and easily accessible, an air hose reel is a must-have tool. Not only do they help prevent tangles and kinks, but they also protect your hose from damage and extend its lifespan. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best air hose reels available. From heavy-duty industrial models to compact options for home use, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
MaxWorks 80720 Auto Rewind Retractable Reel with 3/8″ x 50′ Air Hose
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty and reliable air hose reel, the MaxWorks 80720 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 50-foot long rubber air hose is durable and comes with solid brass fittings, making it resistant to corrosion and wear.
- With a maximum air pressure of 250 PSI and maximum air flow of 25 CFM, this hose reel is capable of handling most air tools and compressors.
- The auto rewind feature with four non-snag rollers helps to reduce hose wear and makes it easy to store the hose neatly when not in use.
Cons
- The unit is quite heavy, weighing in at 33.5 pounds, which may make it difficult to install for some users.
- Some customers have reported issues with the hose developing leaks or bulges after a few months of use.
- The hose reel does not come with any supply hose, so you will need to purchase one separately if you don’t already have one.
Overall, the MaxWorks 80720 Auto Rewind Retractable Reel with 3/8″ x 50′ Air Hose is a solid choice for anyone in need of a high-quality air hose reel. The durable rubber air hose and solid brass fittings make it resistant to wear and corrosion, while the auto rewind feature helps to keep the hose neatly stored when not in use. However, the unit is quite heavy and some customers have reported issues with the hose developing leaks or bulges over time.
Amazon Basics Manual Hose Reel
If you’re looking for a compact and durable air hose reel, the Amazon Basics Manual Hose Reel might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The bend restrictor helps preserve the lifespan of the hose and protects it from kinks and bend damage.
- The steel mounting bracket can be attached to a workbench or wall for easy access, and the quick removal pin lock allows the reel to be easily detached from the mounting surface for portability.
- The compact construction with beveled flanges makes it easy to store and use in tight spaces.
Cons
- The reel doesn’t come with screws or bolts to attach it to the wall, and it doesn’t include a hose.
- The hose has a strong odor, which might be a concern for some users.
- The rolling mechanism is not very smooth, which can make it difficult to roll the hose back onto the reel.
Overall, the Amazon Basics Manual Hose Reel is a good option if you need a compact and easy-to-use air hose reel. The bend restrictor and steel mounting bracket are useful features that make it more convenient to use, and the compact design makes it easy to store in small spaces. However, the lack of screws and bolts and the strong odor of the hose might be drawbacks for some users.
Flexzilla Retractable Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel
If you’re looking for an air hose reel that is easy to use and store, the Flexzilla Retractable Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel is worth considering.
Pros
- Made from UV stabilized polypropylene, this hose reel is extremely durable
- The auto retract/latch hose mechanism simplifies every job by keeping excess hose out of the working space
- The reel can be mounted to the wall or ceiling, making it easy to store
Cons
- At 7.26 pounds, it may not be as lightweight as some other options
- The maximum working pressure of 150 pounds per square inch may not be sufficient for some heavy-duty jobs
- Some users have reported issues with the locking mechanism
This hose reel is a great option for home shops or light-duty jobs. The Flexzilla hose included is a nice bonus, and the adjustable hose stopper allows you to customize the length of hose that remains when fully retracted. However, if you need a heavier-duty option or are looking for a more portable reel, this may not be the best choice for you.
In terms of ease of use, the auto retract/latch hose mechanism is a great feature that simplifies every job by keeping excess hose out of the working space. The swivel mounting bracket also pivots in the direction of your work, making it easy to move around as needed.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use air hose reel for light-duty jobs, the Flexzilla Retractable Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel is a solid choice.
Ironton Air Hose Reel
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy air hose reel, the Ironton Air Hose Reel is a solid option to consider.
Pros
- Heavy-duty 18-gauge steel construction with powder-coat finish ensures durability and longevity.
- Wall and floor mountable design offers flexibility in installation and use.
- Can hold up to 3/8in. x 100ft. air hose (not included) with a 300 max. PSI rating.
Cons
- Inlet and outlet connections are not compatible with 3/8in. hoses, requiring additional fittings for proper use.
- Mounting hardware is not included, requiring separate purchase or acquisition.
- Some users have reported difficulty with proper installation, particularly with anchoring to wall studs.
The Ironton Air Hose Reel is a well-made and reliable option for those in need of an air hose reel. Its heavy-duty steel construction and powder-coat finish ensure durability and longevity, while the wall and floor mountable design offers flexibility in installation and use. The reel can hold up to 3/8in. x 100ft. air hose with a 300 max. PSI rating, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
However, it’s worth noting that the inlet and outlet connections are not compatible with 3/8in. hoses, requiring additional fittings for proper use. Additionally, mounting hardware is not included, which may require separate purchase or acquisition. Some users have also reported difficulty with proper installation, particularly with anchoring to wall studs.
Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable and sturdy air hose reel and are willing to work around the compatibility issues, the Ironton Air Hose Reel is a solid option to consider.
PENTAGON TOOLS – 3260 REEL KWIK 100 AIR REEL
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty air hose reel that can handle up to 300 pounds per square inch, the PENTAGON TOOLS – 3260 REEL KWIK 100 AIR REEL is a great choice. It’s easy to mount on the wall or ceiling, and it comes with a 100-foot hose that retracts smoothly and quickly.
Pros
- Sturdy and well-made
- Easy to install and use
- Retracts quickly and smoothly
Cons
- The included whip hose is not very durable
- The hose may kink if not handled carefully
- The reel is a bit heavy and bulky
In my experience, the PENTAGON TOOLS – 3260 REEL KWIK 100 AIR REEL is a reliable and durable air hose reel that can handle heavy use in a workshop or garage. The steel construction feels solid and well-made, and the retractable hose is easy to use and store.
One thing to note is that the included whip hose is not very durable and may need to be replaced after a few uses. Additionally, the hose itself can kink if not handled carefully, so it’s important to take care when using it.
Overall, I would recommend the PENTAGON TOOLS – 3260 REEL KWIK 100 AIR REEL for anyone in need of a heavy-duty air hose reel that can handle a lot of use. It’s well-made, easy to use, and a great value for the price.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying an air hose reel, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some of the most important features to look at:
Hose Length and Diameter
The length and diameter of the hose are critical factors to consider when buying an air hose reel. You should choose a hose length that is long enough to reach all the areas of your workspace that you need to access, without being too long that it becomes cumbersome to handle. The diameter of the hose should also be appropriate for the air tools you plan to use. A larger diameter hose will allow for higher airflow, which is necessary for tools that require a lot of air.
Hose Material
The material of the hose can affect its durability and flexibility. Rubber hoses are the most durable and can withstand high pressures and rough handling. PVC hoses are lightweight and flexible, but they may not be as durable as rubber hoses. Hybrid hoses, which are made of a combination of rubber and PVC, offer a good balance between durability and flexibility.
Hose Reel Capacity
The capacity of the hose reel determines how much hose it can hold. You should choose a reel with a capacity that is appropriate for the length and diameter of the hose you plan to use. A reel with a larger capacity will allow for more hose to be stored, but it may also be heavier and more difficult to move around.
Hose Reel Type
There are two main types of hose reels: manual and automatic. Manual reels require you to manually wind and unwind the hose, while automatic reels use a spring-loaded mechanism to automatically retract the hose. Automatic reels are more convenient to use, but they may also be more expensive than manual reels.
Additional Features
Some air hose reels come with additional features that can make them more convenient and easier to use. These features may include:
- Swivel mounts that allow the reel to rotate 360 degrees for easy access
- Locking mechanisms that prevent the hose from unwinding accidentally
- Adjustable tension settings that allow you to control the speed at which the hose rewinds
- Built-in storage compartments for air tools and accessories
By considering these factors, you can choose the best air hose reel for your needs, ensuring that you have a reliable and convenient way to store and use your air hose.
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