How to Know if a Vacuum-Cleaner Roller Is Damaged

A faulty vacuum-cleaner roller doesn't lift debris out of the carpet.

A vacuum-cleaner roller with damage does not agitate the carpet completely and remove dirt properly. It's necessary to determine if that is the cause when a vacuum suddenly stops effectively cleaning carpets. Once the condition of the roller is known, it's accessible to clean or replace. Or, you can continue troubleshooting, if the roller is in good condition. Although there are varied manufacturers with different configurations, accessing the roller is generally the same.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Scissors
• Rag
• Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

1. Unplug the vacuum cleaner power cord from the wall outlet. Lower the handle to the floor, if you have an upright model, and flip the entire unit over so the roller is facing you. With a canister model, simply turn the power head over so the roller is exposed.

2. Remove the screws securing the bottom plate to the bottom of the vacuum with a Phillips-head screwdriver. The securing screws for the plate are usually visible and near each corner. Pull the bottom plate away from the vacuum-cleaner head.

3. Pull the vacuum-cleaner roller out of the vacuum head, and slide it out of the belt, which slides over the motor pulley and the roller. Inspect the roller for damage, paying attention to the ends as well as the bristles. Rollers with cracks, damaged ends or worn bristles require replacement.

4. Remove as much hair and debris as possible from the bristles. Cut away with scissors any layers of carpeting or hair that are wound around the roller. Wipe down the belt groove on the roller with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. This helps prevent belt slippage. Take the old roller to a vacuum-repair shop or an appliance-repair center for a replacement, if necessary.

5. The ends of the roller fit into grooves in the vacuum-cleaner head. Re-insert the roller by sliding it back into the vacuum-cleaner head, then slipping it through the end of the belt by pulling the belt end to stretch it sufficiently.

6. Rotate the roller to ensure it turns and there are no twists in the belt. Replace the bottom plate, securing with the retaining screws.

Tips & Warnings

• If the vacuum cleaner is still not working properly, check the hose for obstruction and/or consider replacing the belt.

• Some models require opening the top of the vacuum head to access the roller. There are usually tabs on the side or top that pull away from the head to release the top cover.

• Some manufacturers use clips on each end of the roller to help secure it in place. These clips, or other attachments, are clearly visible and usually are removed with a simple tug. Then, just re-assemble in the reverse order of removal.

• Always unplug the vacuum or any other appliance before servicing.

References

• eReplacement Parts; How To Replace a Vacuum Belt; September 2, 2010
• Bissell: How To Replace a Brush Belt