How to Install a Retractable Hose Reel (Step-by-Step Guide)

A retractable hose reel keeps your garden tidy, protects your hose from kinks and UV damage, and makes watering effortless. Whether you've just received your RELHOST hose reel or you're still deciding, this step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know — from choosing the right mounting location to making your first pull.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these tools:

• Power drill with drill bits (suitable for your wall material)
• Level
• Pencil or marker
• Measuring tape
• Screwdriver
• Wall anchors (included in your RELHOST package)
• Mounting screws (included)

Step 1: Choose Your Mounting Location

Pick a spot that is:

• Close to your outdoor faucet — ideally within 3–5 feet so your leader hose reaches comfortably
• At a comfortable height — most users mount between 4–5 feet from the ground
• On a solid surface — brick, concrete, or wood stud walls work best for a secure hold

Tip: If you're mounting on drywall, always locate a wall stud or use heavy-duty wall anchors rated for at least 30 lbs.

Step 2: Mark the Mounting Holes

Hold the wall bracket against the wall at your chosen location. Use a level to make sure it's perfectly straight, then mark the screw hole positions with a pencil.

For RELHOST models with a 180° swivel bracket (such as the RW22 series), make sure there's enough clearance on both sides for the reel to swing freely.

Step 3: Drill and Install the Wall Bracket

Drill pilot holes at your marked positions. Insert wall anchors if needed, then secure the mounting bracket firmly with the provided screws. Give it a firm tug to confirm it's solid before hanging the reel.

Step 4: Attach the Hose Reel to the Bracket

Hang the hose reel drum onto the mounted bracket. Most RELHOST models click into place with a locking pin — you'll hear a click when it's seated correctly. Double-check that the reel spins freely without wobbling.

Step 5: Connect the Leader Hose to Your Faucet

The leader hose (the short hose that connects the reel to your water supply) should already be attached to the reel inlet. Connect the other end to your outdoor faucet and hand-tighten. Turn on the water briefly to check for leaks at the connection point.

Note: RELHOST hose reels use a Never-Leak aluminum fitting system. If you notice any dripping, simply tighten the connection a quarter turn more.

Step 6: Thread the Garden Hose and Test the Auto-Rewind

Pull the garden hose out slowly to its full length. Walk it around your garden to confirm it reaches all the areas you need. When you're done, give the hose a gentle tug to engage the auto-rewind lock, then release — the hose will retract smoothly back into the reel.

Tip: For the first few uses, guide the hose by hand as it retracts to ensure it winds evenly onto the drum.

Step 7: Adjust the Stop Ball (Optional)

Your RELHOST reel includes a hose stopper ball that controls how far the hose retracts. Slide it along the hose to set your preferred stop point — useful if you want the nozzle to stop just outside the reel rather than retracting all the way in.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Hose won't retract fully: Check that the hose isn't kinked or caught on an obstacle. Also verify the stop ball position.
• Water leaks at faucet connection: Tighten the leader hose fitting or replace the rubber washer inside the connector.
• Reel wobbles on bracket: Re-check that all mounting screws are fully tightened and the locking pin is engaged.

Final Thoughts

Installing a retractable hose reel takes less than 30 minutes and makes a noticeable difference in how you use and store your garden hose. RELHOST reels are designed for straightforward DIY installation — no special tools or plumbing experience required.

If you run into any issues during installation, our team is happy to help at sales@relhosttools.com.