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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. |
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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. |
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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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