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Vacuum cleaners are powered by fan-generated suction that pulls dirt through a hose or a chamber. It then deposits the debris into a detachable cup or bag.
In some models of these household appliances, a rotating brush or beater bar is attached to the nozzle’s end to help sweep dirt into the chamber. These areas must be obstruction-free for the vacuum to maintain suction power and remain functional. Today, we’ll look at the possible causes of a vacuum’s loss of suction, and recommended solutions for them
Why Your Vacuum Loses Suction
Some of the most common reasons for your vacuum’s subpar suction performance could be the following:
Bag Damage
If you notice your machine losing suction power, a likely culprit is a ripped or torn bag. Even the slightest tear can result in a suction loss, so inspect it from time to time. Even if there’s no obvious damage to the bag, a replacement should still be in order. That way, you can rule out the bag as the problem.
Filter Problems
The latest models usually have dual filters. One may serve as an exhaust filter, while the other could function as a dust filter. They may be housed in a sheet material surrounded by a plastic frame enclosure or a boxlike container containing a high-efficiency air filter.
In most cases, filters are easily washable and can be inserted back into their slots once dried. Though, even the slightest damage means you should replace them.
Airflow Obstructions
In a canister vacuum or upright vacuum, the airflow starts at the hose tip. Stretch the hose out to its full length and stick a broom handle through it. Any obstructions inside should be pushed out through the other end.
Inspect the hose from end to end for cracks, kinks, or holes that will result in suction power loss. If you spot any of these problems, replace the hose. On the other hand, you should turn an upright vacuum upside down so you can assess the opening that leads to its body. Be on the lookout for hair jams, small objects, and pieces of paper that may reduce the suction.
Upright vacuums with a rotating brush require the removal of brush for better access. Inspect the connectors between the vacuum and the hose. Any damage or lose connections will compromise vacuum airflow and lead to a corresponding loss in suction power.
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Rotating Brush Issues
When the vacuum’s beater bar or rotating brush doesn’t turn, there may seemingly be a loss in suction power. This part functions by sweeping dirt and debris inside the suction chamber, making it easier for the machine to suction dirt.
A rotating brush that spins slowly or stops spinning can reduce cleaning power. Fortunately, this has an easy fix. Just detach the rotating brush and clean it to regain full function. However, there are times when the drive belt that turns the brush is damaged and requires replacement. Either way, this shouldn’t be too difficult to resolve.
A Bad Motor
A motor that’s going bad will most certainly lead to suction loss. A bad motor may smoke, sound off, or go through fits of starts and stops. Fixing a motor is normally a professional’s job, so having the vacuum replaced is usually the next course of action if you refuse to take it to a shop.
That said, some bag vacuums make use of a fan blade made of plastic to generate suction. The suction system involves a simple attachment of the fan blade to a motor axle. Dirt and debris suctioned into the chamber pass through these blades before they end up in the bag. When the blades are broken, the motor starts to vibrate strongly or run off-key, resulting in a suction loss. Replace the fan blade to regain suction power.
Full Dust Container
While checking your dust bag or container for damage, you may have overlooked its full state. Yes, that does affect cleaning power. Empty the container first and run the vacuum again to see if there’s a need to inspect for other causes.
The low suction could have simply been down to a bag chock full of dust and debris. In fairly new vacuums, the drop in suction strength is usually attributed to there being no space in the dust bag to accommodate incoming dirt.
Keep Your Vacuum in Great Condition
Don’t make a habit of waiting until your vacuum loses power before doing an inspection. You may be able to restore your machine the first few times, but it will be harder to do so as the appliance gets older.
As much as possible, empty the dust container after every use, clean your vacuum regularly, and have it undergo maintenance and repairs now and then. Also, pick a high-quality vacuum; you’ll have fewer problems when you do.
