In this article, we shall look at a few maintenance tips that you can do at home to ensure your vacuum cleaner keeps working and cleaning as efficiently as it can. Proper vacuum maintenance can also help you save up costs incurred for repairs or replacements.
A vacuum cleaner works very hard to keep your home clean and fresh. It is a home investment that requires proper care. There are a number of things one can do to make sure your machine works as it should for many years. Below are ten tips you should apply when caring for your cleaner.
Top 12 Vacuum Maintenance Tips
When performing a check, always remember to unplug your device beforehand. This will prevent any accidents from occurring.
1. Replace the Bag Regularly
This is the easiest and quickest ways to maintain it. Many people tend to replace a bag when it is full to the rim. In order to keep your machine working at its best, you should replace your bag when it is 2/3 full and no more. Air must pass through all the collected dust and other tiny debris and a full bag means that your device will have to work that much harder to clean your floors. If you vacuum up a place and you notice tiny debris left behind, then this is a clear sign to change your bag.
2. Use Correct Bag
When replacing a bag, make sure you use the correct bag size and type for your machine. There are tons of different brands, types, and models of vacuum cleaners and finding the right attachment bag can be somewhat confusing. Read the instructions correctly to ensure you purchase the correct item. When you find the right bag, it is best to stock up on them.
4. Attach Bag Correctly
Once you have the right bag, make sure that your bag is on properly. It should connect all the way and secured using any clips or holders as directed in your manual. If your bag isn’t properly attached, your machine might suck in debris but instead of depositing it inside your bag, it might be lodged up inside your vacuum cleaner. This will undoubtedly damage your machine.
5. Empty Bin or Tray on Bagless Models
If you own a bagless model, you need to empty its bin or tray frequently. Most of these models have a market, which indicates when it’s time to empty your tray. However, you do not have to wait till the marker lights up. It is best to empty it after every use.
6. Clean Attached Filter on Bagless Models
After you empty your bin, clean the attached filter as well. This can be achieved by gently knocking your filter against a garbage can. This process will loosen up any particles or debris that may be trapped inside. Next, using a blunt object, remove dirt lodged in between the slats of your filter. Some models come with washable filters and trays – here; you can simply rinse them out with water.
7. Clean the Beater Bar
This is the spinning brush – also known as a brush roll. Certain items can get wrapped around your roll and when this happens, your roll will not spin as well as it should. You can clean your brush roll while it is still attached to your machine or you can remove it from the vacuum, the choice is up to you. You can either opt to use your fingers or clean it using scissors to cut off any items wrapped around it.
8. Lubricate the Bearings on Your Beater Bar
Spin your brush roll on its axle with your fingers to ensure it spins freely. If it doesn’t, you need to clean out the bearings more and lubricate them.
9. Check the Belt
After cleaning your roll, check the belt – this is what is used to keep your roll in place. If your belt is loose stretched out, or too narrow than a new belt, it is time to replace it. Your belt should be replaced every six months, depending n how many times you use your device. If you do not use it frequently, then you need to replace belt once a year.
10. Check Filters and Hoses
If you own a machine with a HEPA filter, you need to frequently check and clean it periodically. Remove any debris that’s accumulated. Sometimes hoses get large objects trapped inside them. If your hose attachment isn’t working properly, you need to stick a hook inside it to see if there’s something lodged in there. If yes, gently remove the object to clear your hose’s passageway. You can use a bent coat hanger wire to pull it out.
11. Replace All Items Back
Now, it is time to put back the brush roll through the belt. Make sure that the belt is still over both the brush roll and drive shaft.
12. Check Your Components
Do not overlook your plugs and cords during inspection. Ensure they do not have any cuts or holes. If they do, play it safe and replace them as soon as possible.
Note: If you notice a problem with your machine and you are unable to determine its source, you should take it to a vacuum shop for correction.
Your machine, just like any other appliance in your home, requires proper maintenance to keep it working as efficiently as it should. The steps highlighted above are very easy to do. However, if you are uncertain of how to go about it, there are tons of tutorial videos on YouTube. It is cheaper to do the necessary vacuum maintenance work n your device. It is up to you to keep it working well. You can also contact your model’s customer care agent if you have further questions.
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