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Like a car, a vacuum cleaner depends on proper
maintenance for peak performance. Without periodic maintenance, not
only will you see a drop in your vacuum's ability to clean, you'll
also risk having more allergens and particles expelled back into the
air and back onto your floors. Furthermore, failure to maintain your
vacuum can also result in the engine overheating and even reduce
machine life expectancy.
However, when it comes to vacuum cleaner maintenance, with some many
different types of vacuums available, it's difficult to pinpoint how
to maintain each and every style of vacuum cleaner. This page
outlines some simple maintenance tips for two of the most popular
vacuum cleaner types - upright and canister. |
| Maintaining
Your Upright Vacuum Cleaner |
| 1. Frequently check your vacuum's bag (if it has
one). When the bag is full, this forces the unit to
work harder. Eventually, this will shorten the life of the
machine. Always pay attention to your vacuum manufacturer's
directions regarding bag changes. As a general rule, many
vacuum bags will have a line indicating when it needs to be
replaced. Instead of waiting until it is full, replace the
bag when it is 1/3 to 2/3 full, and always make sure you use
the right bag for your vacuum cleaner. If your vacuum
cleaner is a bagless model, frequently empty out the dust
bin. See our selection of vacuum cleaner bags
here.
2. Don't forget about your vacuum cleaner's
filters. Filters should be changed or washed on a
regular basis and also according to the manufacturer's
directions. Some vacuums have a bag and/or filter
replacement indicator light, but if yours doesn't, check the
filter regularly, particularly if you vacuum frequently or
if you happen to vacuum high-traffic areas.
Click
here to see our selection of vacuum cleaner filters.
3. Clean the brushroll. Your vacuum's
brushroll can fill up quick, and this is especially true if
you have pets. Carefully remove the brushroll and cut
through the buildup. Many vacuum manufacturers recommend
using a seam ripper for this purpose.
4. Replace the belt. Check your vacuum
cleaner's belt periodically and keep in mind that it should
be replaced every six months to one year, depending on how
frequently the unit is used. Vacuum belts should be tight
without any worn spots or cracks. It is also a good idea to
compare the used belt to a new one.
5. Lubricate the bearings on the brushroll.
To clean and lubricate bearings, unscrew the caps and remove
them. Clean and lubricate as needed.
6. Check the power cord. Examine your vacuum's
power cord at least every season to ensure there are no
frayed wires. |
| Maintaining
Your Canister Vacuum Cleaner |
| 1. Like upright vacuum cleaners, canister
vacuums will need to have their bags replaced often (if
applicable). By the time the bag becomes half-full,
the unit will have very little airflow. Regular bag changes
will prolong the life of the motor and increase cleaning
efficiency. 2. Change filters often. If your
canister vacuum cleaner is equipped with a HEPA or
electrostatic filter, these will need to be changed once a
year and even more frequently with constant use.
3. Watch out for clogged hoses. If
you find that the hose in your canister vacuum has clogged
up, consult the vacuum's manufacturer before attempting to
unclog it yourself.
4. Regularly inspect the powerhead. Like
upright vacuum belts, a canister vacuum's powerhead belt
will stretch with use. Be sure to change the belt every few
months. Also, don't forget to clean the brushroll in the
powerhead. By doing so, the brush will turn faster and help
clean more efficiently. |
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