How to Troubleshoot a Shark Steamer

The Shark Steamer is a modern steam mop that combines steam-jetting action with an absorbent micro-terry pad to clean floors without the use of soap. The overall design of the Shark Steamer is simple, combining a standard motor, heating element and water pump to produce the steam. While the design is simple, troubleshooting can become slightly complex when determining what may be wrong with your steamer. In general, replacement parts for this steamer are only slightly less expensive than replacing the machine, so if simple home remedies do not fix the problem, it may be time for a new machine.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Replacement wire

Instructions

No Steam

1. Fill the steamer tank with vinegar using the steamer's measuring and filling tools. Fill to the fill line on the unit.

2. Place a pad on the bottom and run the vinegar through the steamer. You can mop the floor while the machine is running, or simply pump it in place on a concrete surface.

3. Observe the amount of vinegar steam coming from the Shark. Typically, hard-water deposits will clog up the steam vents and pump tubing. The vinegar removes the buildups.

4. Remove the pad and check the vents for any pieces of hard-water deposits.

5. Repeat this process once more with vinegar and than once with distilled water.

No Power

1. Verify that the Shark is completely plugged into the power outlet.

2. Try another appliance in the outlet, as it could be the outlet and not the Shark that is at fault.

3. Unplug the Shark and unscrew the top cover that covers the motor. Look for any disconnections in the wires or any blackened areas.

4. Pull out and replace any broken wires.

5. Replace the Shark if it still does not function after wire repairs, as the motor is most likely burned out.

References

• Shark: Customer Support