Vacuum Cleaner Maintenance

Different vacuum cleaner models require different maintenance schedules and attention. Therefore it is essential to check the manual first to determine the maintenance needs of vacuum cleaner.

Maintain vacuum cleaner

• In general vacuum cleaners need to have their bags changed or their dirt containers emptied.
  
  
• Most bagless and some bagged vacuum cleaners have filters that need to be cleaned or replaced every month or once in few months.
  
  
• One of the most common maintenance jobs for vacuum cleaners is replacing the belt. One can replace the belt with the aid of a simple screwdriver.
  
  
• Another common maintenance job in vacuum cleaners is replacing the filter bag. One needs to clean out the filter underneath the bag before replacing. To access the filter beneath the bag, simply pull out the filter bag out of the vacuum cleaner first and then the filter out. Wash it with soap and water and dry it before positioning it back in the vacuum cleaner.
  
  
• If the host attachment to the vacuum cleaner becomes clogged, one can clean it by pulling it straight and poking a broom handle through it.
  
  
• Vacuum cleaner cords need to be examined seasonally to make sure that no fraying wires are evident.
  
  
• The roller of the vacuum cleaner needs to have hair and fibers cleaned from the surface regularly.
  

Motor burn problems

Most Vacuum cleaners use high speed universal motors which can rotate at several thousand rpm (rotation per minute). They use carbon brushes which require periodic replacements. This is a job best left for the qualified service technician. Do not disassemble the motor section of the unit under any circumstances.

As we have mentioned in this series of articles on home maintenance, a lay user can only attend to general maintenance with limited skills and tools. All electrical and electronic machines operate at lethal voltages and can CAUSE serious damage or shock hazard to self and home. It is positively dangerous to even attempt to repair any electrical machineries without the required skills or knowledge. Always refer servicing to qualified technicians or the dealer.

• To reduce the chance of motor burn in vacuum cleaners and to improve the performance of the unit, one can follow these simple procedures:
  
  
• Inspect the service ports and hose on a regular basis for any obstruction.
  
  
• There are pop up pins used in some machines, which indicate the time to change the filter but these pins are not always reliable.
  
  
• Test to see if the filter is plugged: First clean the main dirt canister and then the filter and turn on the vacuum cleaner. If you notice an increase in the suction power at the end of the hose, then the filter needs to be replaced. It is advised to do this test on a dry day so that the expelled dust will not be a problem.
  

Disclaimer: This series of articles contains general information on home maintenance of household machinery. This is not an exhaustive list of service procedures. A lay user can only attend to general maintenance with limited skills and tools. All electrical and electronic machines operate at lethal voltages and can CAUSE serious damage or even electrocution or shock hazard to self and home. It is positively dangerous to even attempt to repair any electrical machine without the required skills or knowledge. Always refer servicing to qualified technicians or the dealer. For detailed troubleshooting refer to owner's manual and service manual if available. The information contained herein is only for general reference and does not carry any warranty implied or otherwise. You use the information provided here at your own risk.