Appliance Repair: Three Ways to Figure Out Why Your Vacuum Cleaner Isnt Working

8 March 2016
 Categories: Home & Garden, Blog

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When your vacuum cleaner is no longer picking up dirt or won't run at all, it is time to do some troubleshooting. There are some issues with a vacuum that you can repair on your own. With these troubleshooting tips, you will be able to determine if you need to hire a vacuum cleaners professional.

Check the Cleaning Brush

In many cases, the issue with your vacuum cleaner is nothing more than the cleaning brush being clogged with hair and debris. Start by turning off the vacuum cleaner and making sure it is unplugged. Check the vacuum bag and make sure it is emptied. Now turn the vacuum over on its side so you can reach the brush located underneath the appliance. Look for any debris that is caught inside and around this brush, such as hair, carpet fibers, lint, and debris it picked up. Some hair gets wrapped multiple times around the brush, so you may need scissors to cut it. Just be careful not to cut into the brush itself. Once it is cleaned, start up the vacuum and see if it helps to solve the problem.

Inspect the Belt

Another common issue with vacuum cleaners that aren't working properly is with the appliance's belt. It might simply be worn or may be completely broken and need to be replaced. The belt is located behind the cleaning brush, so put your vacuum back on its side and move the brush out of the way. Remove the plastic plate that is behind the brush and look for the belt. If it looks loose, see if it can be tightened. Then look for any areas of damage, such as cracks, holes, or worn areas. This should let you know whether or not it needs to be replaced. If you believe it is the belt but aren't sure how to replace it, contact an appliance technician.

Clear Clogs From the Hose

As a last step before heading to a repair technician, check the hose of the vacuum cleaner. The hose should be located behind or underneath the appliance. When you locate it, disconnect it and look inside for anything that might be clogging it. You might have attempted to pick up large debris that couldn't get through the hose so that it is stuck halfway through to the vacuum bag. You will need to find a tool that can dislodge it, such as a wire coat hanger. After it is cleared, inspect the hose itself for any signs of damage. The hose might need to be replaced.