Diagnosing a Faulty Vacuum Cleaner

Faults in vacuum cleaners are often quite simple to rectify, so here we will explain a few simple checks to help find and cure your problem.

Not Picking Up Dirt:

If you have an upright cleaner with an agitator brush or brushroll bar at the front, simply turn the vacuum cleaner over to see the agitator and turn the appliance on briefly to confirm the brush is rotating.

If you need to clear any hair or debris from the brushroll bar or agitator, make sure the vacuum cleaner is disconnected from the mains plug, as this will help to prevent accidental injury.

The Motor is Straining and Getting Hot:

If there is a restriction or blockage of the air flow then the motor noise changes and the motor can quickly overheat.

First check the bag or container is not overfull. Then examine the vacuum cleaner filters and replace them if they look blocked or heavily contaminated. To confirm that there is no other problem it may be possible to test the cleaner with the filters temporarily removed, but bear in mind that filters are used for a reason, and using your cleaner without them for sustained periods of time can cause permanent damage to the motor.

If the cleaner still does not pick up dirt and has low air flow then there is likely to be a blockage in the air way or hoses. If possible, remove the hose and cleaning tool as these are the most likely areas to block up. If a blockage is found in a hose, it can sometimes be pushed back out, by pushing a broom handle down the hose away from the motor end.

If the motor continues to get very hot (despite having clean filters and good airflow) then the motor may have started to break down with shorter turns in the windings. A new motor will be required if this is the case.

Squealing Noises:

This usually indicates a dry bearing on either the motor or the agitator bar. Disconnect the belt to the agitator (if fitted) and see if this cures the problem. Bearings can be lubricated with light machine oil such as 3-in-1.

Split or Damaged Hoses and Damaged Tools:

If air is being drawn in through a damaged hose then the cleaning efficiency will be reduced. Replace any damaged vacuum cleaner hoses or tools to restore performance.

vacuum cleaner hoses or tools to restore performance.

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* All information provided is a guide only. BuySpares accepts no liability for any problems occurred while attempting any advice shown. If in any doubt contact a qualified repair service.