Vacuum Maintenance Tips

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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.

Vacuum Bags

Vacuum Filters

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Floor Cleaning Solutions

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