Avoid Repairs with these Vacuum Maintenance Tips

Are you having problems with your vacuum cleaner? Lack of suction, burning smell or clogged hose? Your vacuum cleaner doesn’t need very much attention, but a little simple maintenance will keep it working and cleaning as efficiently as it can. Maintaining your vacuum cleaner properly can also head off more costly repairs or replacements. General vacuum cleaner maintenance is easy and safe, but when it comes down to substantial repairs, it’s always best to ask a professional, or simply replace your hoover – attempting to fix the machine yourself could be dangerous!

Vacuum Maintenance Steps:

Regularly:

Change your vacuum cleaner bag.
Make sure the floor head is not clogged with debris.
Change or clean the vacuum filter.

Keeping vacuum cleaners or hoovers in good working condition ensures they last longer and give you better value for money. Vacuum cleaner repair can be avoided with a little regular inspection and care. So what vacuum cleaner maintenance and cleaning measures should you take to prevent your vacuum and its parts wearing out before their time?

How to Maintain a Vacuum Cleaner

When using your vacuum cleaner, try to stick to some basic vacuum maintenance guidelines, and you may not have to resort to time-consuming repairs later on.

Treat the vacuum cord with care. Avoid pulling out the plug with the cord, or using the automatic rewind when the cord is tangled or obstructed.

Check bags regularly. Remember, a bag shouldn’t be full to the brim before it is changed, as vacuum cleaners can lose suction when bags are more than half full. Never re-use paper bags, as their pores become blocked after one use, which can cause the vacuum motor to overheat trying to circulate the air.

Pick up any larger objects like children’s socks or coins that may accidentally slip up into the hose. Hoses can sometimes become blocked in this way, so if your vacuum is not performing as it should, try testing the hose by pushing something long and thin, like a broom handle through it.

How to Clean a Vacuum Cleaner Filter

Dirty filters mean a less-efficient machine, so an important vacuum maintenance tip is to make sure the filters are functioning properly on your hoover. Different models have different filtering systems and while some are washable, others will simply need replacing when used, so double-check your model’s instructions on its vacuum cleaner parts before going ahead.

Your vacuum may also have several filters, depending on whether it uses bags. Foam filters found in the exhaust air can often be rinsed with a tap to clean them, but make sure you allow them to fully dry before replacing them in the vacuum. Plastic filters can simply be dusted with a soft brush or cloth, preferably outside or over the bin.

Things to Watch Out for During Vacuum Cleaner Maintenance

Always unplug the vacuum before you begin your maintenance regime. It sounds obvious, but even accidentally knocking a switch can cause vacuum cleaner parts to start working unexpectedly, which could result in physical or electrical injury.If your vacuum stops working abruptly, this may mean it has overheated. Switch off and unplug, waiting for at least half an hour for it to cool down before using again. This may be an indication that vacuum repairs are needed, so it may be wise to seek expert advice if the problem cannot be found.

Monitor your vacuum for changes in noise and performance, in order to get an idea of how often it needs attention.Regardless of any issues, you can reduce the risk for vacuum repairs in the long-term by regularly checking the internal vacuum cleaner parts, the bag, and the hose every few uses.Remember – this advice represents general care and vacuum maintenance, and you should always refer to the manufacturer’s handbook for specific instructions, especially before removing any hoover parts in order to clean them.