Vacuum cleaners receive a lot of wear and tear, so it’s important to keep them in good condition if you want them to last you for a while. A vacuum cleaner hose is one of the most essential parts of the machine, and if it’s not working properly, the vacuum is almost useless.
However, if you’re having issues with suction, don’t throw it out just yet. There are some things you could possibly do to solve the problem rather quickly. When it comes to vacuum hoses, they’re pretty easy to manage and usually require maintenance rather than a replacement. Before you switch out your hose, check to see if the issue can be fixed another way.
Clean The Hose
It’s impossible to not get your vacuum cleaner hose dirty over a period of time, and the flexibility of the tube makes it prone to clogs. When this happens, there’s a lack of suction in the equipment due to a blockage and therefore it requires cleaning. Here are a few tricks you can try to get it running smoothly again.
1. Push Out The Clog Manually
Take off the hose and lay it on a firm surface. Next, insert a broom or another long-handled tool you might have and push it through the tube. Doing this step will empty any objects that might have gotten stuck inside.
Take off the hose and lay it on a firm surface. Next, insert a broom or another long-handled tool you might have and push it through the tube. Doing this step will empty any objects that might have gotten stuck inside.
2. Rinse It Out
After you’ve pushed out all the large debris, go ahead and wash the inside of the hose. This will guarantee that you completely remove all obstacles that could be hindering the vacuum. Pour in about two tablespoons of dish soap down the hose and submerge it into a sink full of hot water. Whisk the water inside to clean the entire length of the tube.
After you’ve pushed out all the large debris, go ahead and wash the inside of the hose. This will guarantee that you completely remove all obstacles that could be hindering the vacuum. Pour in about two tablespoons of dish soap down the hose and submerge it into a sink full of hot water. Whisk the water inside to clean the entire length of the tube.
3. Dry
Once you’re carefully done washing out the hose, be sure to let it completely dry before using it again. Hang it over your balcony or on a shower curtain rod for a few hours and check the inside of the hose to make sure it’s good to go.
Once you’re carefully done washing out the hose, be sure to let it completely dry before using it again. Hang it over your balcony or on a shower curtain rod for a few hours and check the inside of the hose to make sure it’s good to go.
4. Check The Hose
This next step could be done before or after you clean the hose. And if there’s a hole or rip in it, you’re likely to spot it as you’re running water through the tube. But as an extra precaution, place it back onto the vacuum and use your hand to check suction coming from the vacuum hose.
This next step could be done before or after you clean the hose. And if there’s a hole or rip in it, you’re likely to spot it as you’re running water through the tube. But as an extra precaution, place it back onto the vacuum and use your hand to check suction coming from the vacuum hose.
5. Replace The Hose
If you determine that there’s a leak in the tube, it’s time for a vacuum hose replacement. Some people try to fix this problem by wrapping duct tape around the area where the hole is but it’s a temporary fix, especially if there’s a rip in the hose versus a small puncture.
If you determine that there’s a leak in the tube, it’s time for a vacuum hose replacement. Some people try to fix this problem by wrapping duct tape around the area where the hole is but it’s a temporary fix, especially if there’s a rip in the hose versus a small puncture.
How To Replace Your Vacuum Hose
This next section is to help you figure out how to install your vacuum hose replacement and get your cleaner running like new again.
Use The Correct Make and Model
A vacuum hose is made for a specific make and model, so be sure to use the correct one. You can check your manufacturer's manual or go on their website to determine the right size that’s needed. Most small vacuums are really simple to replace and don’t require much effort. However, if you have a standard cleaner with the hose permanently attached on one end, it requires an additional step.
Repairing The Hose
Your instructional manual should tell you exactly how to change out your vacuum hose. You might have to unscrew the cover of the machine in order to remove the old tubing. Be sure to follow the manual carefully so you don’t damage your vacuum cleaner.
Test The Vacuum
Once you’ve put your vacuum hose replacement on, it’s time to test it out. Turn on your cleaner to ensure that it runs smoothly. If you don’t run into any complications, then you’re all set!
Taking Care Of Your Vacuum Cleaner
Although vacuum cleaners generally get consistent use, they should last you a while. With that said, you shouldn't have to change your vacuum hose too often. The steps above will help you keep it running smoothly without purchasing a new tube regularly–a little maintenance goes a long way. The only time a hose needs to be replaced is when there’s a puncture in it that prevents proper suction. If you change the tube and it still doesn't run correctly, then there's another issue which might indicate the need for a new vacuum cleaner.
