How to Find a Vacuum Hose Leak

Vacuum cleaners develop leaks in the hose from wear and tear.

Vacuum cleaners use a suction process to pull dirt and grime out of carpet and other surfaces. The hose that runs through the machine from the bag or collection container to the floor sweeper is used to transfer the dirt from the floor to the container. These hoses usually detach for use in corners and other places, so you can collect all the dirt. When the hose develops a crack or hole, the suction of the machine is reduced. It can normally be repaired, but first you have to find the leak.

Things You'll Need

• Tape
• Smoke

Instructions

1. Turn the vacuum on so it is creating suction.

2. Listen to the vacuum hose by putting your ear near it. Listen for a slight change in sound or a whistle noise. This will narrow down the area.

3. Run your hands over the hose in the area where you heard the variation in sound. Feel for a small breeze where the pin hole or crack is sucking in air. Also feel around the area where the hose attaches to the vacuum cleaner because leaks can develop there as well.

4. Wrap a sticky tape like duct tape around the hose to cover the leak. Start about 2 inches to one side of the leak and wrap the tape around the hose, working your way to the other side of the leak. Wrap until you are 2 inches on the other side of the leak. Overlap the tape as you go.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use smoke to flush out the leak. Use a smoker device or burn something that creates smoke. Turn on the vacuum and run the smoke along the surface of the hose. When the smoke gets near the leak, the vacuum will pull the smoke in and you can mark the spot for repair.

References

• Online Tips: Vacuum Hose Repair