Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Vacuums Suck (Sometimes): Vacuum Repair Tips

It's true; vacuums suck. But more notably, sometimes they don't suck. When this happens, it doesn't necessarily mean that your vacuum is broken. (Unless it's smoking. Then it is most definitely broken.)

Try these tips to fix a broken vacuum before throwing it out. It'll save you a handful of cash and it will save a bit of prime real estate in the landfills.
  • Replace the bag when 1/3 to 1/2 full or empty the bin or tray frequently for bagless models.
  • Clean off the spinning "brush roll".
  • Replace or clean any filters in your vacuum.
  • Check to see if the belt is broken. It sounds hard, but it's really not. Google "replace vacuum belt" for tips on what to look for.
  • Take it to a vacuum repair shop. My sister and I have both used Carmen's in Westerville and their customer service was wonderful. If they can't fix your vacuum, they may even offer to take it off your hands for a few bucks in order to salvage the parts. Way better than sending it directly to it's grave!
  • For more tips, check out this WikiHow article.
Feeling a bit lost? Though most vacuums share similar features and require similar maintenance, your vacuum may be a bit different. Digging through your junk drawer for the manual or Googling the make/model in search of a manual in PDF format may not be the worst idea.

3 comments:

  1. Thanks for these tips. I learned the replace the bag rule the hard way when my vacuum got totally messed up and I had to take it to a vacuum repair shop. Now I do just what you say here. 1/2 full and it's empty.

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  2. Often, I encountered vacuum troubles, including jammed vacuum fan. Your tips is an eyeopener and thanks for such contribution.

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  3. Vacuums definitely suck haha! I'm trying to learn how we can clean the roller inside the vacuum, and empty the bags of dirt easily. Hopefully my vacuum will work better after we clean out the hair that gets stuck in the rollers.
    Celine | http://www.langleyvacandsew.com/en/

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