Vacuums
How to Identify and Fix Common Vacuum Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced Vacuum Technicians :
Kirby vacuum STINKS: If it stinks even after you have replaced the disposable bag, the outer cloth bag has absorbed the smell. Take the plastic bag top off, take the bag off the plastic shoe-like base (you may have to buy a bag strap or use big cable tie to install it back).
Frequently Asked Questions About Kirby Belts. Why Do I Keep Burning Belts? It is likely the belt isn`t turning freely on the brush roll.
Q: It smells like the belt is burning. What is wrong? A:It is likely the belt isn`t turning freely on the brush roll. Flip out the belt lifter handle and turn it clockwise until the green arrows line up.
If you`re smelling rubber, the belt has either burned out and snapped or the belt has become so stretched out that the roller is not moving and the vacuum belt is getting super heated from the motors RPM.
Overheating due to clogged exhaust filter
The exhaust filter can also get clogged, causing a problem with the motor cooling. Therefore, you should also check the exhaust filter if the vacuum cleaner smells burnt. It is usually located on the top or back of the unit, right where the exhaust air comes out.
The air intake pipeline of the brush accessories may be clogged, or the roller accessory may be blocked due to dirt build-up. If you keep using your vacuum while these parts are not fully functioning, there may be an unpleasant burning smell coming from your appliance. Clean these parts and remove any dirt build-up.
The Kirby Home Company warrants that the product shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for three (3) years from the date of purchase when the Kirby system is used for residential consumer purposes.
It`s caused by a worn-out motor belt. The burning smell can also be as a result of the rubber belt burning due to the loss of elasticity. All in all, the belt is worn out and needs replacement. To fix the burning smell problem in a vacuum cleaner, you will have to replace the motor belt.
Blocked Filters or Overfilled Bag
If the filters are blocked, or the bag/canister is overfilled, the motor may overheat. This can cause a burning smell or even smoke. Always empty your vacuum before it reaches maximum capacity. This ensures it`s running effectively and reduces the chance of a burning smell.
Some people refer to this as a urine or burning rubber smell. This could be something electrical in the home overheating and melting its insulating plastic or rubber — which could lead to a fire. The most likely culprit is an appliance, such as a dishwasher, washing machine or air conditioner.
If the filter is clogged, it can cause the vacuum to smell like wet dog. Pet dander can cause allergy problems too so be sure to wash your (sponge) filter or replace it frequently. It is advisable to replace the filter at least every 3 to 6 months to maintain performance and to prevent foul smell.
Put Dryer Sheets Inside The Bag
Place a dryer sheet into the dust bag of your vacuum cleaner before cleaning to improve the fragrance of the vacuum cleaner itself. In addition, you may use some orange peel or a few drops of essential oil on a piece of paper towel to remove the odor.
The price of vintage Kirby vacuum cleaners can vary widely, depending on their age and condition. The least expensive ones are probably worth about $100 and high-end models might sell for $2,000 or more. But if you`re looking to buy one that hasn`t been refurbished, expect to spend several hundred dollars.
If you demand the absolute best in your vacuum cleaner, you can`t go wrong with the Kirby Avalir 2. This trusted solution is built to last, so it will deliver years of deep cleaning. You`ll never regret investing in a high-quality vacuum that makes your life easier.
If the cleaner becomes noisy or starts vibrating, it may be because some debris has got tangled around the brush roll or agitator situated in the bottom of the cleaner.
In 1935, the company introduced the Kirby Model C, the first product to carry Jim Kirby`s name. One of the key features is the amount of suction the motor generates.
For more than 100 years, every Kirby has been handcrafted in the United States from die-cast aluminum.
What should I do? If your vacuum cleaner whistles, this is usually a sign that your device can`t suck in sufficient air. Often, it`s the dust container or bag that`s full. Check these first and exchange them if necessary.
The most common health symptoms from inhalation of plastic fumes are irritations to the nose, throat, and skin. Neurological symptoms such as dizziness and confusion can develop from exposure to styrene, butadiene, and acetone. Acrolein exposure from polypropylene can result in a decrease in pulmonary function.
According to Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick, a professor of medicine at Queen`s University specializing in respirology, smoke exposed to sunlight and its UV rays can create a chemical reaction that results in the creation of benzene and formaldehyde, which smell like burning plastic.
Phantosmia refers to any smell you detect that isn`t actually there. For some people, these odors are pleasant, like freshly baked sweets. But most people describe unpleasant smells, such as: Burning rubber.
– G.E. Dr. Roach: Natural rubber causes allergic reactions in some people, but if he is having no symptoms, the consensus of the sources I read is that there is likely no health impact from the odors of natural rubber.
Generally speaking, burnt oil will have a thick, acrid odor. Its unpleasantness will stand out during your drive, and more often than not, you won`t be able to overlook its presence. When this happens, you should safely pull over to examine your engine and check for the cause of the foul smell.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
My Ultimate G Kirby started making a strange noise and an unusual smell of burning.
ANSWER : If it is a smell of rubber, then you could have a bad belt and/or brush roll. If it is an electrical smell, then the carbon brushs for the motor may be arc-ing, you will have to check the motor for that.
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Kirby Sentria Hi, I have a new Sentria & used it for the first time today. It was going fine & then I could smell smoke & it started to make a loud noise so I turned it off quickly. If I turn it on it immediately starts making the noise again & I can see it is all lit up inside like something is burning or sparking. I have checked the roller & it is moving & I have checked the fan which is moving & doesn’t appear to be damaged in anyway. This product is from the US & we are in the UK & we are us
ANSWER : Sounds like the motor burned up. not sure if travel adapters will handle a large load like a motor, around 8 or amps. power needs in US are 110 volts ac, 60 hertz.
I believe UK is 220 volts and 50 hertz.
usually when a vac is brought to europe you must change motor.
I believe UK is 220 volts and 50 hertz.
usually when a vac is brought to europe you must change motor.
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Burning smell There is a burning smell when I run my Kirby Ultimate G. The smell seems to be coming from the belt. I looked at the brushes and they are spinning so the belt is working. the Post on the vacuum is getting very hot not sure if that is normal. What is causing this?
ANSWER : Unlock the sweeper brushes and take them out. on each end is a cup bearing and should be free of debris.
then check around and under the belt and likely there is debris wrapped around it.
the post is getting hot as your pulling too much of a load.
though if it continues the motor may have a bad set of motor brushes (inside the motor) or bad wiring (kinda unlikely).
then check around and under the belt and likely there is debris wrapped around it.
the post is getting hot as your pulling too much of a load.
though if it continues the motor may have a bad set of motor brushes (inside the motor) or bad wiring (kinda unlikely).
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Electrolux Hi-light Hi, my hoover is making a weird knocking noise and emitting a burning smell. Took the lid off and the belt *seems* okay, but still makes the noise and the smell….
ANSWER : Burnt smell is probably the belt slipping. Even though it looks OK, either the belt needs replacement and/or the roller needs cleaning and/or lubrication at the ends. Try cleaning the roller ends first and then light lubrication with WD40. If belt works, you are done. If not, replace belt.
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Burned smell hi, I have used my hoover 4 times and is starting to smell as something burned, I checked the troobleshouting part of the owner manual and it says that check the belt, I already did that and everything is ok I used the hoover again and still smelling bad and start to work very slow I better shut off it.. what could I do??
ANSWER : If the motor slowed down this would indicate a bad motor. not cost effective on this model to replace unless under warranty. it is not uncommon these days to see a motor go bad every now and then.
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.What are the first 4 digits of your serial number? this would be the month and year of mfr. even without a receipt, a warranty service shop should be able to assist you.
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.What are the first 4 digits of your serial number? this would be the month and year of mfr. even without a receipt, a warranty service shop should be able to assist you.
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Terrible noise My dyson was working great then started making this horrible noise. I cleaned the bar but noise is still there. I discovered the beater bar went around three passes then froze and started horrible noise again. my husband got the bar turning but after 2 swipes vacuuming it did it again. Can it be fixed or is it time to retire it and buy a new one. Wendy Kiser
ANSWER : That noise is the clutch. A very expensive part and very hard to replace. When a problem with the clutch happens it’s generally not worth the time and money to replace.
I suggest getting a different type of vacuum, maybe a Miele or Sebo. With the money spent on one of those vacuums, you wont have problems like you would with a Dyson. And the cleaning power is so much more powerful than what any Dyson can offer.
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Vacuum making high pitched noise and smells like motor is burning
ANSWER : Try repair first for quote and if too expensive then replace. 5 years is about the average life span.
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Burning Smell Hi, I have a Rainbow E series that when I run the vacuum there is a burning smell. I have cleaned the entire unit and filter but still have the smell? I am afraid that the motor will burn out?
ANSWER : Check the carbon motor brushes, there might be arcing on the armature. New brushes may help if the armature is ok.
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