Vacuums won’t last forever, but that doesn’t mean they need replacement as soon as suction begins to diminish. Your vacuum can provide you with years of excellent service as long as you know how to keep it in proper working order. Try the following five techniques to improve your vacuum cleaner’s ability to keep your floors looking fresh and new.
Empty the Debris from the Vacuum
Your vacuum’s purpose is to collect dust, hair and other particles from your floor. The debris goes to a containment area that needs regular cleaning. You can empty a bagless vacuum after every use. Vacuum bags can remain a bit longer. Most manufacturers state that vacuum bags need replacement every three months, though the best rule of thumb is to replace those bags when they are nearly full. A vacuum store should have ample bags in stock, so you will always have a replacement on hand when you need it.
Keep Your Vacuum Clean
Cleaning your vacuum does not mean that you need to scrub it with soap and water after every use. You do need to ensure that no long strings or hair have wrapped around the rotating brush. A simple snip with some scissors should be enough to clear the brush from its entanglements. In addition, make sure there are no clogs in the hose by using a long wire or thin pole to dislodge any blockages. Other parts of the vacuum may become covered in dust over time as well. If you are comfortable with doing so, remove the base from your vacuum and use a dry rag to clean the fan and intake port. Look for the exhaust port and the gaskets and wipe those clean as well. A vacuum repair shop can do this for you if you prefer not to get your hands dirty. All these tasks can be a bit easier with a cordless model.
Change or clean the filters
Most vacuums have filters. You may be able to clean them by running them through warm water. Check your manufacturer’s guidelines for the best method for cleaning. Some filters need replacement rather than cleaning. Your local vacuum store should have replacement filters you can purchase. They can usually order the ones that you need if you do not have them in stock.
Look for any leaks
Cracks and leaks in the vacuum can greatly reduce vacuum suction. Hoses can develop small tears over time, which can keep your vacuum from functioning correctly. Look over all areas of the vacuum carefully. You can use almost any kind of tape to seal cracks when you find them. Electrical tape, clear tape and duct tape are all fine choices for small leaks. Your other option is to replace cracked hoses. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase and very easy to change. Not feeling handy? You can also use your local vacuum repair shop to do this maintenance for you.
Make sure you are using the vacuum properly
This option is the easiest, but also the one most often overlooked. Most vacuums, especially the newer models, have different settings that you can choose depending on the type of surface you are vacuuming. Few people read the manual that accompanies a new vacuum, so the lever, nob or button that adjusts suction may have gone completely unnoticed. Make sure you are using the appropriate setting for your vacuum to ensure you are getting the amount of suction you need for the job at hand.
How to Restore the Suction Power in a Vacuum Cleaner?
Your vacuum cleaner may lose suction power for a number of reasons. Check to see if the issue can be resolved by one of the following.
Check the dust container
It’s time to empty the container if your vacuum cleaner’s suction has failed.
Check to see if the filters are clogged
Various foam or mesh filters are available for vacuum cleaners. If not properly cleaned or replaced, these could become clogged over time. Your vacuum will start to lose suction as a result of this. See here for general guidelines on how to maintain the filters in your vacuum.
Please refer to your vacuum cleaner’s user manual for more details on its filters. If you’re having trouble finding your manual, you can download it here by entering the model number of your product.
Check the hose for obstructions
Your vacuum will lose suction if the hose becomes blocked. Check for obstructions such as foreign objects, dust or hair balls by disassembling the hose and its attachments. Using a long stick or broom handle, you can unclog the hose.
Look for cracks or tears in the hose
In order to prevent loss of suction, inspect the hose for any damage. Air seeping through a crack or tear will do this. Make contact with an authorized service agent if you do discover a tear.
Please refer to your vacuum cleaner’s user manual for more details on the filters. If you’re having trouble locating your manual, you can download it here by entering the model number of your product.
Check for clogging in the brush or roller
Clean the brush or roller by flipping it over. These could, over time, become clogged or stuck with hair or dust, which would reduce the suction of your vacuum. To make cleaning brushes easier, some can be disassembled. Consult your user manual for instructions on how to disassemble any parts as each model may differ. If you’re having trouble locating your manual, you can download it here by entering the model number of your product.
Make sure everything is securely attached
Your vacuum cleaner will lose suction if there are any loose connections. Ensure that the tube, brush, hose, and dust container are all securely fastened.
Consider technical difficulties
If the issue persists, there might be a technical issue with your vacuum. Contact a licensed service agent if you have any reason to believe this is the case.