Sometimes the biggest and most complicated projects end in either success or failure based on the smallest and simplest of pieces. Complicated hoses and set-ups mean little if you cannot secure them in place. Having the right hose clamps makes work easy and efficient, and such a simple piece of hardware can make a big difference in the final results you see.
Before shopping for the best hose clamp sizes for your projects, there are a few key things to keep in mind as factors. These include adjustability, compatibility, and materials, and each one can have a big impact on how you go about choosing the best hose clamps. Here are a few hose clamp sizes and design options to consider.
Screw Clamps
These hose clamps are made with a long stainless-steel band that is hen wrapped around the pipe and tightened with a screw. As the screw is tightened, it cinches the band around whatever it is affixed to and keeps it securely held in place. The hose clamp is able to adjust for several sizes and types of hoses, thus eliminating the need for multiple hose clamp size options.
Spring Clamps
Hose clamps made in this style are also fashioned from one piece of thin metal. The difference is that they are pre-bent to a certain size and diameter. There are two tabs that can be squeezed to open the clamp and slip it on the pipe. Once released, the clamp springs shut and keep everything in place. The available hose clamp sizes are finicky, and you may need multiple sizes for a project.
Ear Clamps
This style clamp is usually made from one band of metal that looks like the screw type but is usually much thicker and harder to bend. It can be placed around the hose and adjusted slightly as needed. The clamp can be cinched closed with pliers and the metal plug dropped into place to keep everything secure. It is a durable clamp but one of the more cumbersome ones to use.
Wire Clamps
Wire clamps are made much like spring clamps, but rather than shutting with a spring force, their spring force resists closing. To shut a wire clamp, you use the nut and bolt to tighten things in place for a very durable and long-lasting clamp connection. The hose clamp size can vary, but they apply a good bit of pressure to a fairly small surface area for super tight seals.
Finding the right clamp for your specific project and ensuring you have the right hose clamp sizes are vital to the overall success of your project. So be sure to consider these options carefully before selecting the hose clamp that best fits your specific needs.
