How to Troubleshoot a Vacuum Cleaner

When your vacuum sucks ' or doesn't, as the case may be ' try these things before you shell out money for repairs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Broom Or Mop Handles
• Duct Tape
• Vacuum Bags
• Vacuums Cleaner
• Scissors
• Scissors
• Duct Tape

1. Suspect a tripped breaker, broken on/off switch, or a damaged cord if the motor won't run.

2. Insure that you aren't running too many appliances on the circuit if the breaker continues tripping. If that's not the problem, you may have a short circuit in the power cord. Replace it immediately to avoid fire hazards.

3. Check to make sure the bag isn't full if you aren't getting much suction. Replace the bag if it's full.

4. Make sure the hose is properly connected to the machine and that there are no obstructions in the hose or fan.

5. Repair a cracked hose with duct tape. Prevent creased hoses by hanging them over two pegs on a closet wall.

6. Remove hair and strings that tend to get wrapped around the vacuum brush with a pair of small scissors.

Tips & Warnings

• Run a broom handle up a clogged hose if you can't wiggle the object out.
• Don't vacuum up pennies, screws, or other objects that could damage the fan or motor or clog up the hose.

[carebear125]

on 1/22/2007 Can Replace the prong on the cord? 1 fell off...Thank you in Advance. Carrie

on 11/22/2005 Use a warm iron over newspaper to remove old floor tile.

on 11/22/2005 For people who have the exhaust from their central vac blow into their house to save precious heat but don't like the smell, place a fabric softener sheet from your clothes dryer into your vacuum bin or bag. It makes a huge difference!!