No need to panic if your vacuum’s lost its suction! Before you rush off to the repair shop, let’s troubleshoot a bit.
More often than not, it’s a simple issue causing the suction slump. Check for blockages – stuff loves to hide in those nooks and crannies. Don’t forget about the filters; they can get clogged and grumpy. And the dusty ol’ dustbin might be to blame too!
We’ve got your back with a step-by-step guide to breathe new life into your vacuum. Whether you’re on a mission to rescue its suction or just want an upgrade, we’ve got tips to get your cleaning buddy back on track. So, grab your toolkit and let’s dive into the world of vacuum revival!
What Are Signs Your Vacuum Cleaner Has Lost Its Suction Power?
A vacuum cleaner that has lost suction tends to have a hard time picking up the normal debris around on your floor.
Another sign is that the machine will be louder than normal or may make a squeezing sound.
Lastly, if the clog is bad enough, the motor can overheat and the whole machine will turn off.
Where Should You Check To Fix Suction Issues?
1. Dustbin
One of the first places to check if your vacuum cleaner has lost suction is the dustbin.
If the dustbin is full, you need to empty it now.
If you have a bagged vacuum cleaner and the bag is full you need to replace it. A bagged vacuum cleaner with a full bag will always lose suction once it’s full.
The bagless vacuum cleaner will also lose suction if the dustbin is full and will often have a “MAX” line to let you know when it’s full. With bagless vacuum cleaners, it’s ideal you empty them after every cleaning.
Another thing to look for with the dustbin is any damage.
If there are cracks or holes in the dustbin, this will also result in a loss of suction.
The final thing to check with the dustbin is that it’s properly attached to the vacuum cleaner and none of the rubber seals are damaged.
2. Clogged Hoses
The next thing you want to check if your vacuum cleaner has lost suction is the hoses.
Start by checking all of the connections to make sure they’re secure and there aren’t any cracks or holes.
Next, feel along the length of each hose for any blockages.
A common place for a blockage is near where the hose meets the vacuum cleaner, as this is where most of the dirt and debris goes.
If you find a blockage in the hose, you can try using a vacuum hose attachment to remove it or grab a broom to poke it free.
3. Filters
Another common reason for a loss of suction is dirty or clogged filters.
Most vacuum cleaners will have at least one filter, and some may have two or more.
The most common type of filter is a reusable HEPA filter, which can be cleaned with soap and water.
Some filters are not meant to be cleaned and will need to be replaced when they get too dirty. Usually, the higher-end vacuum cleaners will have the reusable filters and the lower-end will have throwaway paper filters.
To check if your filters are the cause of the problem, try running your vacuum cleaner without them installed and see if the suction improves. Don’t do this for too long, as the filter is there to protect the motor and other sensitive parts of the vacuum cleaner.
I’ve also seen a collapse filter cause a vacuum cleaner to lose suction. The filter fell apart on to its self and more of the plastic housing was in the way and cause it to lose suction. So if the filter looks bent or damage, you need to replace it, as it won’t be obvious it’s failed until the motor is on.
4. Make Sure Beater Bar Is Fine
The beater bar on a vacuum cleaner is the rotating brushes that are used to clean the floor. You need to make sure they’re free and clear or else they can affect the suction of your vacuum cleaner.
If the beater bar is blocked, then simply remove whatever is blocking it and try running your vacuum again. This especially goes for hair, which these things love to pick up.
Another thing that can happen with the beater bar is that it can become worn out over time and will need to be replaced. The loss of suction may not be an air problem, but that the brushes are so worn out that they’re not contacting the floor as much and thus cleaning performance has decreased. You could be confusing suction loss with cleaning performance.
5. Power
If your vacuum cleaner plugs into the wall make sure the plug is good. Try a different wall plug to make sure it’s a common problem no matter where you plug in your vacuum cleaner.
Don’t forget to check for any frayed cords or damaged cords.
Vacuum cleaners use a lot of power, so if you see damage to the cords or the wall outlet, it’s best to let a professional repair that for you.
If you have a battery-powered vacuum cleaner, make sure the battery is good and not worn out. You need to replace the batteries on vacuum cleaners every 3 to 5 years or when they show signs of slowing down. Don’t forget to check the battery charger to make sure it turns on and charges the batteries.
6. Belts
Some vacuum cleaners use belts to power the beater bar or the suction off one motor.
If a belt is damaged or broken, it can affect cleaning performance.
The beater brush not moving can make it seem the vacuum cleaner has less suction power, and it will sound different with the brush off leading people to think it’s a suction problem.
Even a belt that is not lined up properly can affect the suction power of your vacuum cleaner, so if your vacuum cleaner has belts, make sure to check them.
7. Vacuum Motor Damaged Or Dying
The last thing that can cause a loss of suction is the vacuum motor itself.
The vacuum motor is what provides the power for the entire vacuum cleaner, and if it’s damaged or going bad, then there will be a decrease in suction.
If you think it’s the vacuum motor, take it to a professional repair shop and have them take a look at it.
There are some things you can do to extend the life of your vacuum motor, like changing the filters regularly and emptying the dustbin often. But even with proper care, they will eventually die and need to be replaced.