With the eco-friendly mantra of reduce-recycle-reduce at the forefront of everyone’s mind, we offer advice on when a vacuum cleaner is ready for retirement, DIY repair or a professional service. Read on to learn more.
Vacuum Cleaner Retirement
A consumer organization report collated data that indicated, subject to differences per brand, the average retirement age is:
- Upright vacuum cleaners - five years onwards
- Canister cleaners - seven years onwards
If your machine is old but working well then consider repairing it if the repair is less than half the cost of a new model.
DIY Repairs And Adjustments
Let's take a look on the repairs and adjustments of the DIY.
High Resistance When Vacuuming
This needs an adjustment at the head of the vacuum cleaner and usually occurs on carpets or rugs. Adjust the head-level to a higher notch; there is typically a graphic that looks like a carpet or the pile (the vertical fibers of the carpet).
The Roller’s Not Rolling
This is probably due to hair, fabric threads, a hairband or debris entangled around the sides of rollers where it connects to the head of the vacuum. This will need manual cleaning out by hand. On an older machine, it might need new vacuum cleaner parts e.g. belt or brush roll.
Reduced Suction - No Hose Obstruction
First, check the hose and head for obstructions. If there is an obstruction midway in the pipe which is not dislodging with a shake, insert a broom handle down the pipe to dislodge it.
The next area to look at is the vacuum bag, or for bagless canisters, the dirt trough. These should never be used until 100% full as it strains the motor - 75% full is the absolute maximum you should allow but 50% is preferable. Next, remove the filters and clean them thoroughly and air dry.
Vacuum Cleaner Recycling
Knowing when to retire your vacuum cleaner is key. Look for signs like frequent breakdowns, poor suction, or loud noises. These indicate it's time for a new one. Remember, old vacuums can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. It's better to recycle them. Many parts, like plastics and metals, can be reused. Some stores offer recycling programs. Always think eco-friendly. Choose recycling to help our planet.
Vacuum Switches Itself Off
This is usually a safety reaction or you have pulled the cord and plug out of a good connection in the socket due to overextending its maximum distance.
The safety reaction is via an overload switch and it is heat activated. This prevents the motor from burning out. Overheating is usually due to straining so there could be a blockage or the carpet level adjustment hasn’t been lifted or your bag/trough is full. Allow the machine ten minutes for cooling down.
Extending The Machine’s Lifespan
One of the best ways to extend the lifespan[hyperlink to April 2022 article How To Increase The Lifespan Of Your Vacuum] of your vacuum cleaner is to regularly inspect it, replace vacuum cleaner parts and book it in for a service every twelve months. Outdated parts on a machine can increase friction, strain the motor or cause an electrical short so ignoring this need will cost you in the long run - or the not-so-long run.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to repair or replace your vacuum cleaner involves considering its current performance, the cost of repairs, and environmental impact. Regular maintenance, including proper cleaning and storage, extends its lifespan. When it's time to retire your vacuum, remember to recycle responsibly.
Keeping these points in mind ensures you make a practical and eco-friendly choice for your home and the planet. Talk to your local service technician about the scheduled replacement of vacuum cleaner parts and extend the lifespan of your machine. Contact Us Today!
FAQ
How often should filters be cleaned?
Clean or replace filters every 3-6 months.
Can I fix suction loss myself?
Yes, check and clean the filter, hose, and bag/bin.
When should I replace my vacuum?
Replace if it's frequently breaking or has poor suction.