How to Fix Loss of Suction in a Vacuum Cleaner

Improving the suction in a vacuum cleaner and avoiding leaks may help air flow and cooling of the motor as well as reducing smells and iritants from escaping.

Here we show simple ways of checking and tracing blockages and identifying problems to help your vacuum cleaner to work efficiently.

Video Transcript:How to Fix Loss of Suction in a Vacuum Cleaner

Welcome to BuySpares.

This video will show you how to fix the loss of suction in a vacuum cleaner.

Important: before replacing a part in any electrical appliance, you must ensure that the appliance is first unplugged from the mains.

One of the most common faults a vacuum cleaner can develop is a loss of suction, and the 5 main reasons of loss the suction are a full bag, blocked or dirty filters, blockages gaps in the air flow and a faulty motor.

Start by removing the bag from the vacuum, the fuller the vacuum bag is the more it will reduce the level of suction, so be sure to empty this on a regular basis. Also check the bag for any tears or holes as these allow dust to escape, blocking the filters and reducing the suction. Replace the bag if any are found.

If you have a bagless vacuum make sure the canister is emptied on a regular basis and don't allow it to fill above the maximum recommended level.

Next have a look at the filter in your vacuum, most cleaners have at least one filter which is the pre-motor filter. This is designed to stop harmful particles from getting into the vacuum and damaging the motor.

Remove the filter and wash it in warm water to remove any dirt then wait for the filter to air dry completely before replacing it in the vacuum. Many vacuums also have a second filter which is a post motor filter and the stops fine dust or pollen particles from leaving the vacuum and recirculating around the room as you are cleaning.

You can also remove this filter and clean it in the same way, although some manufacturers have specific instructions on how to clean their filters. If the filters are in especially bad condition you should just replace them with new ones. After checking the filters, examine the hose and airways of your vacuum cleaner for blockages.

Debris and small items that are sucked up can often get stuck in the hose and this can have a serious effect on the suction. You can also gently push a broom handle a long the hose to help any blockages out.

Next check the hose for any tears or holes. It's quite easy for these to appear as many people pull their vacuum along by the hose, if you do find any gaps then you should replace the hose.

If you're machine is an upright model check the brush roll and belt. If the belt is broken or worn it won't turn the brush roll and while this won't cause a lot of section it can give that impression as the vacuum won't be as effective at picking up dirt.

Finally if you've checked all of these areas and your vacuum is still experiencing a loss of suction, the problem may lie with the motor and you may need to replace the entire motor or just replace the carbon brushes on it.

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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.