Heat tape or a built-in heating element helps protect against freezing, but misuse can cause pipe damage. Choose self-regulating heat tape or a hose heater that adjusts to outside temperature changes.

A hose with a smaller diameter weighs less, and also holds less water when full. It's lighter and easier to move around, but also can't deliver as much water. A 50-foot hose with a 7/16-inch diameter ...