A serious recall is making headlines across the country. More than 3.6 million HydroTech expandable hoses are being pulled from stores and homes due to safety concerns. These hoses, which were sold as “burst-proof,” are now being reported to do exactly the opposite—burst while in use. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the warning and said that nearly 30 people have already been injured as a result.
The hoses were sold nationwide at big stores like Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot, and Target, and they’ve been on the market since January 2021. That means millions of people may have one sitting in their garage, backyard, or shed—without knowing it could be dangerous.
What’s going wrong with the hoses?
According to HydroTech’s website and the CPSC, the problem lies inside the hose itself. The hose is designed with an expandable inner liner that stretches as water flows through it. However, when a part called the “strain relief” breaks or comes loose, the pressure builds up inside the hose and causes it to suddenly burst. In many cases, it happens without warning.
As of July 24, there have already been 222 reported cases of these hoses bursting while in use. These aren’t just minor accidents. At least 29 people were hurt—including injuries like a bone bruise, two sprained joints, and five people who temporarily lost their hearing because the popping noise from the burst was so loud. These incidents were enough to push for an urgent, voluntary recall from the manufacturer, Winston Products, based in Glenwillow, Ohio.
Where the hoses were sold
The affected hoses were sold all over the United States at popular retailers where many people buy their home and garden supplies. This includes Amazon, Walmart, The Home Depot, and Target. The hoses were available for sale from January 2021 through April 2025 and came in different sizes, ranging in price from $20 to $136, depending on the length and color.
These hoses were advertised for everyday tasks — like watering gardens, washing cars, or cleaning patios. Because of that, they became very common in many American homes.
Which models were recalled?
The recall involves HydroTech 5/8-inch Expandable Burst-Proof Hoses. They were sold in several lengths: 25 feet, 50 feet, 60 feet, 75 feet, 100 feet, and even up to 200 feet. Some hoses are green, some are black, and others come in different colors. What they all have in common is the risk of bursting during use.
To check if your hose is included in the recall, look at the end of the hose that connects to the spigot (the outdoor faucet). Remove the black rubber washer and look for a date code marking. If your hose has no marking at all, or if the marking ends in one of the following codes — 211, 212, 213, 214, 221, 222, 223, 224, 231, 232, 233, 234, 241, 242, or 243 — it’s part of the recall.
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This may sound a little complicated, but it’s important to check so you can protect yourself and your family.
What the CPSC is saying
The CPSC made it very clear that the recalled hoses should not be used under any condition. The commission explained that the hoses could burst without warning, causing pieces to fly off, which could hit someone and cause injury. They also mentioned the risk of loud bursts that could hurt someone’s hearing, especially if the hose bursts near the ear or face.
They are urging everyone who owns one of these hoses to stop using it immediately. Don’t wait for it to break or assume it will be okay. The risk is real and already proven by nearly 30 injury reports.
What you should do if you own one
If you find out that your hose is part of the recall, there’s no need to panic — but you should take quick action. The company, Winston Products, is offering a full refund for anyone who has one of the recalled hoses. But there’s a specific process you need to follow.
First, take a pair of scissors or a knife and cut off the regulator end of the hose — this is the end that connects to the water spigot. Then, write your initials and the current date in permanent marker on the regulator piece. After that, take a photo of the cut piece showing the date code and your handwritten note.
Finally, go to the official HydroTech recall website:
https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall
There, you will find an online form where you can upload the photo and submit your request for a refund. Once approved, you’ll get your money back.
Why this matters
Product recalls like this don’t happen every day—and when they do, they’re taken seriously. Millions of households may have one of these hoses without realizing the danger. Injuries like sprains and hearing damage may seem small, but they can easily become worse if something hits a person in the eye or causes a person to fall while using the hose.
This isn’t just about avoiding damage to your garden or yard—it’s about keeping people safe. HydroTech has already worked with the CPSC to get the word out, but many customers may not have heard about it yet. So, it’s also a good idea to let your friends, family, or neighbors know if you think they may own one.
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Be extra cautious with “burst-proof” products
This situation is also a good reminder to stay alert when using any product that deals with water pressure, air pressure, or electricity. Even products that are labeled “safe” or “burst-proof” can sometimes have unexpected design problems. That’s why recalls exist — to catch and fix those problems before they hurt more people.
The best thing consumers can do is stay informed. Checking the CPSC’s recall page from time to time can help you stay ahead of dangerous products. And when you hear about a recall, take it seriously and act quickly.
