- 1). Locate the hose. On canister vacuums, the hose is the main suction tool and originates from the canister itself. On an upright, the hose is located on the back of the machine. The suction end is inserted in a vacuum hole when not in use, but once it is pulled free works the same as any other hose.
- 2). Inspect the exterior of the hose. Start at one end and give the entire length a close visual inspection. If you cannot see any damage, turn the vacuum on and then slowly run your hands along the hose. If the hole is small, you may not see it, but you should be able to feel the air leaking out.
- 3). To seal the hole, wrap a layer of duct tape around the damaged portion of the hose to stop air from leaking out. Follow the general rule of thumb that if the hole is smaller than a dime, it can be patched. If the hole or tear is greater in size, you will need to buy a new hose or vacuum.
- 4). If you cannot find a hole, look for a clog. Remove the hose from the vacuum. Each make and model will be different, but usually there will be a few screws securing the base of the hose to the machine. Follow the hose to where it enters the vacuum housing and remove the screws, then pull the hose free from the vacuum.
- 5). Push a yardstick into the hose. Continue to compress the hose over the stick until the object obstructing the airflow through the hose is pushed out, then reattach the hose to the vacuum.
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