How to Identify and Fix Common Vacuum Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced Vacuum Technicians :
Another reason the vacuum is not turning on may be that the circuit breaker may have tripped. Check the breaker on the unit and if it continues to fail it usually means the motor is going bad. Another reason can be the bad signal from the unit to the wall inlet.
The most likely cause is incorrect wiring to your wall valve inlets. Disengage one of the system wires on the front of your power unit and if the system shuts down then you need to verify the wiring to your wall valve inlets is correct. If the problem persists call Broan-NuTone Technical Support at 888-336-6151.
Vacuum cleaners are fairly simple machines. They need power to be transmitted to the vacuum to create a suction force that lifts debris. So, the usual areas that cause suction loss include the wrong height setting, stuck rollers, a faulty gasket, a broken vacuum belt, a filled bag, or a clogged hose.
Overheated Motor
If your vacuum was working fine and then suddenly shut off, it may have overheated. Most vacuums are equipped with a thermal protector safety switch that won`t allow the motor to run when it becomes overheated. You will need to wait for 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your machine, to try again.
If your vacuum cleaner keeps turning off, this could be due to the following reasons: Blockages – check the hose and head for any obstructions. Filter – always check your filters, if these are clogged this could be causing the vacuum cleaner to work harder and lose suction power.
the vacuum system may be dirty, the pumping line may be restricted or too small in diameter, the pump may be dirty or with too little capacity, the pumping speed may be restricted due to other causes.
To fix a clog in the hose, feed one end into a garbage bag, and poke the other end with the back of a mop pole, until you push the clog material out into the garbage bag. To fix a clog in the vacuum, whether it is a canister or bag, use your finger to feel for a clog. Pull as much of it out as you can and discard.
While different factors affect how long a system lasts, many central vacuums can last 20-30 years, or even longer, depending on how often they are used.
The most common problems found in vacuum cleaners are low suction force, excessive noise, burning smell, vacuum not turn on, and overheating. These issues can be fixed by either cleaning the device or replacing some parts of the device. At times, it is best to seek a professional to fix the cleaner effectively.
The most common reason for vacuum motors failing is overheating. Most `dry` vacuums have a flow-though motor. These motors use the air they have sucked up the dust with, to cool themselves. When there is a blockage, flow-though motors are unable to cool themselves due to the lack of airflow.
Most air conditioning units are equipped with a reset button. These buttons tend to be red and quite small. If you`re having a tough time finding it, consult your owner`s manual.
Alternatively called the reset switch, the reset button allows devices that utilize it, such as a computer or peripheral to be rebooted. Usually, the button is on the front of the device, next to or near the power button.
The suction power is to be measured at the end of the tube of a complete vacuum cleaner (i.e. with tube, hose and filters – but without nozzle). Some manufacturers show the results from measurements made at the suction of the actual vacuum cleaner.
Connect a tachometer and vacuum gauge to a none regulated vacuum source on the engine. Disconnect and plug fuel vapor canister vacuum lines. Start engine and run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. Note the vacuum gauge reading and any variations in the pointer movement at idle and 2000 RPM.
If you hear a clicking sound, one or both of the motors have failed and should be replaced. If no clicking sound, the relay has failed and should be replaced.
Check Your Breaker Box
Your well pump may have stopped working due to a lack of power. Sometimes resetting a breaker or replacing a fuse affected by a power surge or brownout can fix this. If the well pump circuit breaker has tripped, the well pump itself may be failing.
The pump is not producing the rated flow or head:
The clearance between the impeller and casing is excessive – adjust the impeller clearance. The suction head is insufficient – ensure the suction line valve is fully open and the line unobstructed. If the impeller is worn or broken – inspect and replace.
Power Usage
The amount of power used by a central vacuum system is roughly the same as that of a portable vacuum cleaner. Yet, it has 3 to 5 times the power of a portable vacuum cleaner. You are getting more suction power, which translates into more efficient cleaning, at no extra energy usage.
Yes, you can use standard, plumbing PVC found at any hardware store to run the pipes for your central vacuum system. It not only saves you time not having to scour the planet for hard-to-find central vacuum piping, it also saves you money because standard plumbing PVC is so much more affordable.
Any fine dust remaining in the filter can usually be removed with a gentle rinse under a cold tap – hold the filter under the running water until the water runs clear. You shouldn`t need to use any detergent – just water.
Loose connections will cause your vacuum cleaner to lose suction. Make sure that the dust container, the hose, the tube and the brush are all attached properly. If the problem continues, your vacuum cleaner might have a technical problem. If you suspect this to be the case, contact an authorised service agent.
Check the power unit reset button located above the power cord. Pressing the button should restore operation. NOTE: The reset button is located on the upper left-hand side of the unit where the low voltage wires connect to the unit. It is most noticeable when popped out after the breaker has been tripped.
Loose connections will cause your vacuum cleaner to lose suction. Make sure that the dust container, the hose, the tube and the brush are all attached properly. If the problem continues, your vacuum cleaner might have a technical problem. If you suspect this to be the case, contact an authorised service agent.