13 Ways You’re Shortening the Life of Your Vacuum Cleaner
Updated: Jul. 18, 2023Don't suck the life out of your vacuum cleaner. Follow this advice to help it last longer and run better.
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You Don’t Remove Clogs
Do a quick visual check for clogs to the hose and wand after every time you use your vacuum cleaner. Unclogging your hoses not only improves suction power, but it can help the vacuum run more efficiently and last longer. If you can’t reach the jammed debris with your hand, use a mop handle or a gardening stake to push it through. An easy test: After detaching the hose and wand, try sliding a nickel through them. If it gets stuck, you know it’s clogged.
Not Wrapping the Cord Up
It’s easy to be lazy and leave the cord out to get stepped on by family and pets. But by wrapping the cord back up after vacuuming, you can prevent damage to it while avoiding potential hazards, including electrocution for family pets or inquisitive crawlers who like to chew. If you don’t have time to wrap up the cord, at the least you should always unplug it. Plus, never. ever vacuum these 13 things.
You’re Not Detangling Brushes
Most vacuum cleaners have rotating brushes at the intake port that kick dust and dirt loose from the carpet so they can get sucked up by the air stream. But when hair, pet fur, or loose strings become trapped in the brushes, they can’t work as effectively. Using a small pair of scissors, gently cut through the debris to free up the brushes, then use a comb to smooth them out. P.S. If you’re in the market for a new vacuum, we highly recommend the Eyevac Stationary Vacuum.
Not Replacing the Bag or Emptying the Canister
Whether your vacuum uses a bag, canister or cup, an overfilled unit will run less efficiently and not last as long. While it’s easy to tell when a bagless unit is full, it can be harder to tell when a vacuum bag needs replacing. If you notice a drop in suction, it could be a sign it’s full from lightweight, fluffy material such as pet hair. For maximum performance and to make your vacuum last longer, replace the bag or empty the canister or cup when it is half to two-thirds full.
You’re Not Changing Out or Cleaning the Filters
Each vacuum is different, but your manual should indicate how often filters need to be replaced or cleaned. Many vacuum models come with an accordion-shaped paper filter and a sponge-like ring filter. For units with washable filters, be sure to follow the washing guidelines from the manual. Of course, the frequency will vary depending on how often you vacuum and how messy your floors are. If the filter looks dirty, it’s time to switch it out or clean it.
You’re Not Replacing the Drive Belt
This belt wraps around the beater brush allowing it to turn. If it’s not working correctly, the beater brush won’t loosen dirt and debris from the carpet fibers. By flipping the power-head over, you can glance at the belt, looking for tears or cracks. If the belt looks loose, that’s another sign it’s time for a new belt. Another way to extend the life of your vacuum cleaner is to keep well away from coffee grounds.
Storing Attachments Separately
Attachments usually come with a storage spot, either on the vacuum itself or in a separate box or bag, yet it’s easy to get lazy. Sometimes we leave a dusting brush or an upholstery tool on the side table instead of walking it down to the hall closet. Not that big of a deal, right? Until it gets lost, or stolen by your puppy for her new chew toy. By storing the attachments together with the vacuum cleaner in a safe spot, parts are less likely to be lost or damaged. In the event you do break your vacuum, here’s how to repair it yourself.
Not Pre-Cleaning the Areas
To stretch out the life of your vacuum cleaner, give the room a once-over. Move backpacks, socks, or clothing with drawstrings to prevent them from catching in the belt. While you can turn off the vacuum and pull them out, over time it could loosen the belt and shorten the life of your vacuum cleaner. Next, check for fallen food items like chips or cookies or small toys like LEGOS. Scoop them before vacuuming the area.
Not Stopping When There’s Smoke
This might seem really obvious, but sometimes we get into turbo-mode, pushing the vacuum beyond its limits. Then even when we smell smoke, we optimistically assume we can fit in just one more room before problem-solving. But prevention is key. “When stress to the motor is present, the motor heats up and usually burns the belt, causing smoke,” suggests Do It Yourself. They advise cutting the burnt belt off with scissors, then replacing it before continuing to vacuum.
Using it Too Often
Think about what’s making your floors dirty in the first place, then try to circumvent it so you use your vacuum cleaner less frequently. Try storing your shoes in a bin by the front door. Other tricks: Instead of taking snacks to your TV room, eat at your kitchen table so you don’t drop crumbs everywhere. And brush pets outdoors to decrease the pet hair on your floors and furniture.
Using the Wrong Setting
Most vacuum cleaners have different settings depending on the type of flooring you are cleaning, i.e. wood or carpet. If you’re using the wrong setting, this can render the vacuum cleaner less effective and may shorten the life of your unit. “Setting your vacuum on the lowest setting may not be the best option to get enough airflow for the suction action,” reports Angie’s List.
Not Reading the Manual
Many people skip reading the manual until there is a problem, but by then it might be too late. Each company’s manual contains important safety instructions and warnings, such as “Do not handle the machine or plug with wet hands.” Obvious, sure, but it could save your life. They also give troubleshooting tips for how to care for and maintain your vacuum cleaner along with warranty information, which is especially important if you are switching to a new brand.
Not Using a Surge Protector
These aren’t just for your computers or TVs. According to Lightning Bug Electric, a surge protector can “prevent an electronic shortage from spurts of electricity that go beyond the voltage limits.” The stronger the burst, the more likely your device can get damaged. Causes of power surges vary from downed power lines to lightning storms.
