All about vacuum hoses

The vacuum cleaner is one of the most popular types of household appliances and is present in every home. However, when choosing a device, the main criteria that the buyer pays attention to are the engine power and the overall functionality of the unit. Hose performance is usually overlooked, undeservedly ignoring this important work tool. This approach is fundamentally wrong, and the service life of the vacuum cleaner and the convenience of its use entirely depend on the quality of the sleeve.

The vacuum hose is an irreplaceable working link of the unit and is an elastic, well-bending pipe made of polypropylene or rubber. The length of the hose varies depending on the specialization and model of the vacuum cleaner, but in general it is in the range of 1.5-2 m. One end of the sleeve is equipped with a short plastic adapter for attaching an extension rod and various working attachments. The junction of the elastic corrugation and the rigid tip is the most vulnerable section of the hose: it is this section that most often cracks and breaks during the operation of the unit.

The second end of the hose is equipped with a special locking device, with the help of which the hose is connected to the vacuum cleaner module. But the locking mechanism is not available on all models: many hoses are connected to the vacuum cleaner by means of a threaded connection. However, this technology is considered quite outdated and is practically not used on modern models. No less popular are hoses where, instead of a latch-lock, a bayonet connection system is installed - fixing the sleeve after a slight clockwise rotation.

At first glance, it may seem that all vacuum hoses are arranged the same, however, this is far from the case. Perhaps their only common feature is the corrugated design, which allows the sleeve to be lengthened as needed. The differences between the models are much greater, the first of them is their diameter, which completely affects the suction power. The higher this value is, the less efficiently the vacuum cleaner will suck up dust, and vice versa. Another, no less important feature, according to which sleeves are classified, is their specialization. According to this criterion, there are three types of hoses.

They represent the most numerous group of hoses and are designed for dry cleaning of premises. Many of them are equipped with the option of adjusting the suction power, which allows for effective cleaning of a wide variety of work substrates - from carpets to upholstery. Such models are available in two versions - simple and frame.

The first is a thin-walled corrugation that does not have a frame and retains its shape thanks to the numerous turns that act as stiffeners. The advantage of such models is their low cost, low weight, good consumer availability and a wide range of products. The disadvantages include the likelihood of pinching the sleeve during operation, frequent ruptures of the joint between the corrugation and the extension cord, low antistatic properties and some flimsy of the locks.

Sleeves made of hard plastic are also referred to as universal frameless models. They also do not have a wire backing, but due to the use of coarse plastic, they have high rigidity and bend poorly. The advantages of such sleeves include their low cost, and among the minuses, they note the rapid appearance of cracks in the folds and a quick breakdown. In addition, when turning, such a sleeve can easily turn the vacuum cleaner, which is due to its inflexibility and almost complete lack of elasticity.

Frame hoses are a rigid structure based on twisted wire reinforcement. The outer part of the hoses is also made of corrugation, which makes the frame models flexible, elastic and at the same time very strong. The advantages of frame sleeves are long service life, excellent elasticity and good stretch ability. The disadvantages include the high cost and difficulty in performing self-repair. The latter is due to the fact that to repair the frameless, it is enough to cut the hose at the break and reconnect it to the tip or lock.

They are arranged somewhat differently than universal models, and in addition to the corrugation and frame, they are additionally equipped with a thin elastic tube designed to supply water. In addition to the tube, the sleeves are equipped with a trigger, which controls the supply of washing liquid and its amount. The advantage of hoses for washing vacuum cleaners is their versatility, ease of use and high structural strength. The disadvantages include the fact that often such sleeves are made for a particular brand of vacuum cleaner and are not combined with other units. In such cases, you have to either use an adapter for connection, or look for "your" hose.

They are reinforced sleeves for use in industry and construction. They have a rubber-fabric design, are equipped with a frame and are equipped with reliable locks. The length of technical hoses is much longer than the length of household models and can reach 5 m, their inner diameter is 5 or more centimeters, and the working pressure reaches 0.5 MPa. This significantly expands the range of their use and allows you to effectively cope with serious coarse contamination. The disadvantages of industrial hoses include heavy weight and difficulties when performing repairs.

Most vacuum hoses come as standard, which, in addition to a corrugated sleeve, includes several of the most common attachments, a brush and a telescopic extension handle. Such models are compatible with most vacuum cleaners and do not experience problems with the availability of spare parts: locks and tips. However, there are also more "advanced" samples, equipped with a number of additional functions and devices. For example, some hoses are equipped with an electronic or mechanical control panel built into the handle. It houses a suction power regulator and a liquid pressure switch for washing models.

Of the additional equipment, the wall holder for the hose should be noted. The device is made in the form of an arched metal trough, which allows you to place a vacuum cleaner hose in it. The fixture is made of stainless steel and is mounted on the wall of a niche or utility room. The hose, placed on the holder, does not twist or kink, due to which it lasts much longer than its counterparts, which were stored in cramped conditions when folded in half

Vacuum hoses should only be selected according to the machine model. This is due to the fact that even within the same brand, the diameter of the sleeves can be different. In addition, the latch design or slot matching of the bayonet connection may not be suitable either. The same applies to hoses for a car vacuum cleaner, therefore, despite the assurances of the sellers about the versatility and compatibility of the mount, it is better to play it safe and purchase a hose designed for a specific model.

The next selection criterion is the length of the sleeve. The convenience of using the vacuum cleaner and the ability to perform cleaning in hard-to-reach places will depend on this important parameter. The sleeve should not be too short, but also not very long: the optimal length is one and a half meters. This size leaves room for the vacuum cleaner to maneuver and allows you to clean both tall cabinets and spaces under the sofa.

Another, no less important point is the choice of hose material. It is not recommended to purchase too thin corrugated sleeves made of low-grade Chinese plastic. Such models can crack the first time they are cleaned and will most likely need to be replaced. But you should not choose too rigid frameless ones. They practically do not bend, which is why they strive to turn the vacuum cleaner over, and when cleaning in hard-to-reach places, they may burst altogether.

In order for the vacuum hose to last as long as possible, it is necessary to follow a number of simple recommendations.

• Never use a hose to tow the vacuum cleaner. This can lead to cracks in the corrugated surface and to its rapid rupture.
• Do not bend the sleeve to an unacceptable angle, or step on it. Due to the significant weight load, the frame inside the hose can deform, which subsequently leads to premature abrasion of the upper polyurethane layer.
• If the hose becomes highly electrified when cleaning synthetic surfaces, the purchase of an antistatic hose and couplings, as well as the obligatory grounding of the sockets, will help to relieve the static voltage.

• Store the vacuum hose in the special compartment in the box in which the appliance was sold. If the sleeve is not supposed to be disconnected from the unit, then it must be inserted into a special mount located on the body of the vacuum cleaner. In addition, storage should be carried out at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer. It is forbidden to locate hoses near heaters and open flames, as well as keep them in freezing temperatures.
• If the suction power decreases and the characteristic whistling sound appears, check the sleeve for large debris such as paper or a plastic bag getting stuck.

For information on how to repair a vacuum cleaner hose with your own hands, see the video below.