How to Fix a Leak in Your Vacuum Hose

A woman vacuuming a carpet
  • 1 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 20
What You'll Need
Broom pole
Chalk or talcum powder
Sharp knife
Duct tape
What You'll Need
Broom pole
Chalk or talcum powder
Sharp knife
Duct tape

Vacuum cleaner hoses are often used to drag the machines around the floor and can be damaged in the process. This can lead to leaks in the hose and a loss of suction. The hose needs to be repaired to restore full function to your vacuum cleaner.

Step 1 – Locate the Leak

If a leak in a vacuum hose affects the efficiency of the machine it will be quick and easy to spot.

Step 2 – If the Leak is Close to one end of the Tube

A leak close to the end of the t 22 be can be repaired by removing the plastic connector from the tube.

Cut the tube just above the leak.

Connect the plastic connector to the newly cut end of the tube.

Note: Some plastic connectors are designed to be fitted by machines and cannot be removed. If your machine has these this repair is not possible.

Step 3 – Clean the Leak

Patching a leak in a vacuum tube should be seen as a temporary measure only.
The location of the leak needs to be cleaned to remove any grease and dust. Liquid soap is a good option. Make sure that no fluid enters the tube unless it is from a wet/dry vacuum.

Step 4 – Stretch the Tube

Cover a wooden broom pole for a couple of feet with chalk or talcum powder. Insert the broom pole into the tube and stretch the part of the tube with the leak along it. Ensure that the area with the chalk or talcum powder is showing through the leak. You might need someone to help with this.

Step 5 – Seal the Leak

It is often possible to cover any leak and mend it with a small strip of duct tape. This is flexible and has strong adhesive qualities. Make sure that the area around the leak is dry and free of dust and apply the duct tape firmly. Make sure that if there is a gap in the leak the duct tape is pressed firmly against the broom pole.

Step 6 – Remove the Broom Pole

Remove the broom pole and check that the duct tape has stuck firmly to the tube.

Step 7 – Remove the Blockage Danger

Having a sticky surface inside a vacuum cleaner tub is inviting trouble. By pressing the duct tape firmly against the coated broom pole you have reduced the stickiness of the duct tape exposed inside the tube. To reduce it further sprinkle some chalk dust or talcum powder on the floor and vacuum it up. This should remove all stickiness.

The flow of air through a vacuum tube is quite strong and will eventually peel the edges of the leak from the duct tape. The repair can be repeated but each time the leak will be bigger. It is always best to replace a torn or damaged vacuum hose.