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How to Unclog a Vacuum Hose

Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:12 PM

Figuring out how to unclog a vacuum hose isn’t too difficult. Performing this regular maintenance procedure will bring back any loss of suction power you’ve experienced. Even your top-tier vacuum cleaner can get clogged, so knowing how to perform this simple task is worth it.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Unclogging a vacuum hose isn’t difficult and takes very little effort when you have the right tools for the job.
  • Make sure that loss of suction power isn’t actually due to a crack in the hose since these two problems are the most common for vacuum cleaners.
  • Take preventative measures to make sure clogs don’t form in your house by avoiding vacuuming anything wet or large chunks of debris.

Tips for Unclogging a Vacuum Hose

Knowing how to unclog a vacuum hose will get you back on track for excellent suction power. Even stubborn clogs are easily defeated when you have the right information on hand. When you know how to make your vacuum more powerful, it is easy to keep your home clean.

Insider Tip

Removing any clogs you find isn’t a super difficult process.

How to Check for a Clog

Checking for a clog in your vacuum hose is a simple process but can be a little involved. First, you want to take a flashlight and shine it along the tube, holding it up above your head. This will allow you to see any potential blockages. Any dark lumps in the hose where the light doesn’t shine through are probably clogs. You can also run water through the hose and see how well it transfer through.

How to Remove Clogs

Removing any clogs you find isn’t a super difficult process. There are a few things you’ll need, however. Having gloves is always a great idea since clogs can be gross and you don’t want that on your skin. Other than that, you’ll need something to slide down the hose and break up the clog into chunks. Any of the following would be great for that:

  • Wire Hanger
  • Hooked Wire
  • Bottle Cleaning Brush
  • Attachments Brushes
  • Cleaning Brushes

Break Up the Clog

Using one of the tools mentioned above, you’re going to break up the clog into chunks. This will make it easier to pull the larger debris out. After you pull out the majority of it, just run warm water through the vacuum hose to wash out anything remaining. Keep in mind that stubborn clogs might take a little longer to get out and might take a few extra steps.

Cleaning up clogs from a vacuum hose is simple. But, it’s not so simple for autonomous vacuums. For those, you’ll need robot vacuum repair from a certified specialist. 

Fixing Stubborn Clogs

In order to get out a stubborn clog, you have a few options. A wire hanger is probably your best option since they have a little more firmness to them and are a perfect shape and size. You can try stabbing the clog while running warm water into the vacuum hose through the other end. The combination of both forces should help dislodge whatever is stuck. Unclogging your vacuum hose will help your appliance function well. This is no different from learning how to use a garden hose pool vacuum to keep your pool clean, especially when it comes to cleaning up algae from your pool. It is always nice when you can come up with quick fixes.

Warning

Keep in mind that stubborn clogs might take a little longer to get out and might take a few extra steps.

F.A.Q.

How Often Should I Clean the Vacuum Hose?

You should really be cleaning your entire vacuum cleaner at a minimum once a month. This depends on lifestyle, however, and what kind of cleaning schedule you’re on. Make sure you look over the vacuum hose every time you use it to see if any clogs might be building up or if any cracks have appeared.


How to Unclog a Central Vacuum System?

Getting a central vacuum system unclogged works a lot differently than in a regular, household vacuum. There are special systems in place, both in materials you can buy and procedures you need to follow.


How to Clean a Vacuum Hose?

There are a few ways you can clean a hose. It’s recommended that you detach it from the vacuum and use soapy water to clean the outside. From there, run the soapy water through the hose itself. Check for any cracks or blockages. Rinse it with warm water or cool water and then let the hose airdry completely.



STAT: For whatever reason, your vacuum is clogged, you should take the following steps to clean it out and restore 100% suctioning power. (source)

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