When looking for a new garden hose, you'll need to know the right screw threads that are suitable for couplings, valves, and adapters. One of the things you'll probably discover is garden hose threads and NPTs, but what exactly are they?
Well, we've done some research and have the answers for you below!
The Garden Hose Thread (GHT) is a standardized screw thread used for fittings, couplings, nozzles, and hose valves. The National Pipe Taper Thread (NPT) is a screw thread standard used for threaded pipes and fittings for pipe connections.
Knowing the difference between the two threads is important to avoid confusion when buying them. In this post, we will discuss the differences between the two threads.
We will also discuss the compatibility between the two and the benefits of using either thread. Keep reading to learn more!
Garden Hose Thread Vs. NPT: Is There A Difference?
A hose is one of the most important things to consider in any home, especially if you have a garden. These hoses have many uses.
Aside from watering plants in the garden, you'll most likely be using the garden hose to clean driveways, cars, or anything that needs water in the yard.
A lot of people think that getting a garden hose is easy. While this is true, many people are confused when stores ask what threads they need for their hose. There are options like GHT and NPT, but what exactly do these mean for a first-time buyer?
Screw threads, or what people commonly call thread, is a helical shape that runs around the cylinder of the screw. In the case of hoses and pipes, it runs on the inside of the cylinder.
The thread's purpose is to convert the rotational movement into linear movement. In simpler terms, it makes turning the screw around without forcing it to fit.
Since garden hoses are cylindrical, they also use a thread to connect to a nozzle or a coupling properly. This is also the same for pipes and other plumbing fixtures at home.
Although their purpose and use are similar, the threads used in garden hoses and plumbing fixtures are entirely different.
What Is GHT?
In the United States, its territories, and Canada, garden hose thread or GHT is used to specify the threads of garden hoses.
This is defined by ANSI B1.20.7, whose official title is NH or National Hose. GHTs also have male threads (MHT) and female threads (FHT.)
The garden hose threads are not tapered but straight and parallel on both sides. These threads will not seal together without PTFE tape.
This is why GHT connectors have rubber washers or o-rings to prevent them from leaking. Fortunately, GHT fittings have different sizes, so you can use other adaptors depending on your needs.
What Is NPT?
In North America, NPT or National Pipe Taper thread is used for different plumbing applications.
According to the ANSI-ASME B1.20.1, NPT should be used to join pipes and fittings. Generally, NPTs will fasten two threads together.
From its name, NPTs are tapered threads, meaning they become narrower towards the ends.
Basing if off of the American standards, the center axis and the taper join of an NPT are required to be at an angle of 1° 47′ 24” (1.7899°.) The pitch of the NPT threads changes as the size increases.
Is Garden Hose Thread Compatible With NPT?
Unfortunately, while GHT and NPT look similar, they are not compatible with each other. This is because both applications are completely different. GHT has parallel threads, and NPT has tapered threads.
Check out this GHT to NPT converter on Amazon.
However, NPTs are used on the bibcocks that connect the plumbing to the hose connectors.
Typically, there will be adaptors that can work with both connections, so you can use them simultaneously but only for connections like these.
When Do You Use GHT Or NPT?
Garden hose thread applications are used for hoses and couplers. You can also see them used in faucets, spigots, bibcocks, Silcock, and hose bibs.
A 3/4-inch GHT fitting is compatible with garden hoses of 1/2", 5/8", or 3/4" internal diameter.
National Pipe Taper threads, on the other hand, are primarily used for plumbing and other bigger applications. They are also used for heating applications and HVAC connections.
They can also be used for transporting steam, liquid, air, or hydraulic liquid through these connections.
What Are The Benefits Of Using GHT Or NPT?
Both the GHT and NPT have separate benefits and advantages over the other. Their benefits depend on what you will be using these threads for.
Here are some benefits of using GHT or NPT connectors:
GHT Benefits
- A GHT connection is easier to attach and detach. This is why this thread is used for garden hose applications commonly used in many homes.
- GHTs are more durable and have thicker walls. This makes them perfect for high-pressure applications compared to NPTs.
- Garden hose threads are less prone to leakage. They also come in standard- and close-fitting types, which gives users more options to match with different fittings.
NPT Benefits
- Because of their wider diameter, NPTs are well-suited for heavier plumbing jobs.
- NPTs also create better seals, so they are beneficial for high-pressure applications.
- Aside from fluids and water, NPTs can also deliver air and gas and be used for other purposes.
Best Garden Connectors And Nozzles For Hoses
You'll need garden connectors if you are looking for a new garden hose.
Based on what we have established earlier, you should look for connectors with GHT so that you won't have any problems using it with any regular garden hose.
Depending on your needs, there are multiple garden connectors you can use. Here are some of the best connectors and nozzles you can try on your garden hoses.
Check out the Gorilla Easy Connect fittings on Amazon.
This quick-connect fitting is made of durable, solid brass. They are easy to use and install and seamlessly fit any garden hose.
This 8-piece set is great for indoor and outdoor use, with an easy-to-connect and disconnect feature.
Get this Gardena quick connect set on Amazon.
This Garden quick connector starter set is perfect if you are looking for a more versatile hose connector. This modular system will work with any GHT water accessory.
They are easy to use and connect, which is perfect for beginners and first-time users.
See these male and female connector sets on Amazon.
Another prime choice for garden connectors, this set contains both male and female connectors that you can use for any garden hose.
These connectors are made of premium aluminum, with rubber grips for easy connection and disconnection. They might be simple connectors, but they get the job done just as well as the more expensive kind.
Grab this 10-pattern spray nozzle on Amazon.
To water the plants correctly in the garden, it's essential to have a spray nozzle that can cover all the areas in your yard. This garden hose nozzle is pretty straightforward to use and easy to install.
Whether you need a hose for cleaning or gardening, this classic nozzle will do the job.
See this heavy-duty brass adjustable twist nozzle on Amazon.
These twist nozzles are perfect if you lean toward essential and straightforward accessories.
These heavy-duty adjustable nozzles can spray water at high pressure for cleaning, and you can easily adjust it to a gentler flow for your garden.
They are easy to install and fit any garden hose you may have at home.
Final Thoughts
Always remember that garden hoses use GHT for the hose and its connectors. If you want to change plumbing fixtures, you will need couplings and valves with NPT.
These abbreviations can be confusing initially, but you can always ask the garden store to help you. Remember to choose the right thread to avoid leaks and wasting water.
While we have your attention, check out these related posts:
What Is The Standard Garden Hose Size [Inc. Thread Size]?
Why Is There No Water Coming Out Of My Garden Hose [& How To Fix It]