How to Troubleshoot a Power Steamer
Carpet steamers are often called warm or hot water extractors, because they use heated water and a cleaning solution to penetrate deep into your carpet. The steamer pulls the liquid back out, along with dirt and stains. Steamers use a system of tanks, brushes and filters that are run by a motor, and are typically straightforward in terms of operation. Problems arise if any of these parts are damaged or not properly installed on the machine, but a little troubleshooting can resolve most steamer problems. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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No Power
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1
Plug the steamer’s cord firmly into the outlet. If it is loose, it may not make the connection necessary to provide power.
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2
Examine the cord for damage such as rips or cuts. If the cord is damaged, do not use your steamer until the cord is replaced.
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3
Check the fuse or breaker panel. If a breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown, reset or replace it.
No Spray
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4
Check the tank on the steamer. Often, no spray or reduced spray is caused by a low or empty water tank. Remove the filter from inside the tank and rinse away any debris before filling the tank with water. If this is clogged, the amount of spray will be reduced.
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5
Turn the power on and squeeze the trigger for spray. If there is still no spray, turn the power off and reseat the tank. If the tank is not properly seated in the machine, the spray mechanism will not work.
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6
Turn the power off and wait one minute if you are still experiencing reduced spray. If the pump has lost its prime, it needs time to reset. If this doesn’t produce spray, the pump belt on your steamer may be broken or damaged.
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7
Turn the steamer off and unplug it. Insert the blade end of a flat-head screwdriver into the slot of the belt access door to remove it. Typically, the access door for the motor and belts is located on the base of the steamer.
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8
Examine the belt, which is usually looped around the steamer’s motor shaft, for tears or signs of wear. If it is damaged, contact your steamer retailer or manufacturer to purchase a new belt.
Brushes Won't Turn
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9
Reduce pressure on the machine if the brushes won’t turn. Sometimes, if you push down too hard on the steamer, this can affect the brush’s ability to turn. If this is not the issue, the brush belt may be broken.
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10
Turn off the machine and unplug it. Insert a flat-head screwdriver to release the belt access door, which is usually located on the base of the steamer, and remove it.
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11
Examine the belt, which is typically looped on the motor shaft. If there are signs of damage or it is missing, contact your supplier for a replacement brush belt.
Not Picking Up Liquid
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12
Check the tool setting switch, which is typically located on the steamer handle. It should be set at the correct setting for the cleaning job you are doing.
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13
Check the collector tank. If it has reached its limit of dirty water, it won’t pick up solution. Empty the tank and replace it on the steamer.
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14
Remove the tank and examine the drain cap. A loose drain cap on your collecting tank will prevent the steamer from picking up solution.
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Retighten the cap and replace the tank on your steamer. Make sure the tank lid is properly installed before turning on the machine and that the tank is seated into the machine properly.
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