Repairing Small Appliances

Appliances

How to Fix a Vacuum Cleaner

©2006 Publications International, Ltd. A diagram of an upright vacuum

On average, vacuum cleaners last between 8 to 12 years depending on quality, frequency of use and maintenance. Regular maintenance and repair can extend its lifespan and reduce actual cost.

There are two main types of vacuum cleaners: upright and canister. The motor and beater bar are in the same unit for upright, while canister has the motor and storage bag in the canister and the beater bar in a separate power head, connected by a hose.

How Upright Vacuum Cleaners Operate

Upright vacuum cleaners use a motor and fan to suck dirt from a surface and deposit it in a bag. A rotating brush called the beater bar loosens and sweeps the dirt into the vacuum. The operator guides the upright vacuum cleaner using the handle where the bag and controls are mounted. Operation is simple, and maintenance and repairs are easy to perform.

How Canister Vacuum Cleaners Operate

Canister vacuum cleaner places the majority of its weight (vacuum motor, filters, bag and cord winder) in a separate unit to make the power head lighter. The canister can be placed in the middle of the room with a long hose, making it easier to move the power head. This design allows more powerful motors to be used.

The canister vacuum cleaner loosens dirt with the beater bar, located in the power head and driven by a smaller motor. Dirt is pulled through the hose by the main motor in the canister. Wheels on the canister make it easily portable. The fan in a canister vacuum is less susceptible to damage than that in an upright vacuum because it is more isolated.

©2006 Publications International, Ltd. A diagram of a canister vacuum.

How to Fix an Upright Vacuum Cleaner

The following tips provide easy instructions for servicing an upright vacuum cleaner’s on/off switch, beater bar, drive belt, dirt fan, and motor. You’ll also learn how to repair an on/off switch, a power-head wire connection, a beater bar, a motor, and a cord reel for a canister vacuum.

Servicing an On/Off Switch: A vacuum cleaner’s on/off switch can malfunction due to repeated use. On most models the switch is easy to access and test. Some are fastened in place with rivets, but most use screws. To test and replace the switch:

Step 1: Make sure the vacuum is unplugged and remove the cover plate to expose the back side of the switch. The switch may be on the handle or the housing.

Step 2: Check the wires to make sure they are completely attached to the switch.

Step 3: Use a continuity tester or multitester to check that there is an open circuit when the switch is off and a closed circuit when it is on.

Step 4: If there is a problem with the circuit or the switch doesn’t test correctly, remove and replace the switch with a replacement designed for the model.

When it comes to maintaining an upright vacuum cleaner, the beater bar is a crucial component that needs regular servicing. This round roller with an offset row of brush fibers can wear down, become damaged, or lose its end cap. To replace the beater bar, turn the vacuum upside down, remove the clips at each end, and lift the bar from the housing. Then, disassemble it by removing the end cap and flange and pulling the brush from the casing. Replace any worn or broken parts, or the entire bar if necessary. The drive belt, which passes power from the motor to the beater bar, should also be checked monthly. To replace it, remove one end of the bar from the housing, loosen the belt from the motor pulley, and slip the replacement belt over the bar and around the pulley. The dirt fan, located under the motor, only needs periodic maintenance. To clean it, remove the motor cover, clean the blades and base with a moist cloth, inspect and clean the back side if necessary, and check whether the motor shaft needs lubrication. If the motor stops working unexpectedly, check the power cord, fan, and on/off switch before testing the brushes with a continuity tester or multitester.

©2006 Publications International, Ltd. If you suspect a faulty motor, use a continuity tester or multitester to test the upright vacuum’s motor brushes.

Step 2: Rotate the motor shaft or beater bar manually. The motor should maintain continuity.

Step 3: If continuity is not maintained, replace the brushes or take the vacuum to an appliance-repair shop. If the motor cannot be repaired, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire upright vacuum.

How to Fix a Canister Vacuum Cleaner

Repairing a canister vacuum cleaner requires a specific set of steps. Here they are:

Servicing an On/Off Switch: The on/off switch on a canister vacuum cleaner is one of the first components to check if the vacuum doesn’t turn on or off properly. Here’s how to test and replace the switch:

Step 1: Open or remove the canister housing to access the back side of the switch.

Step 2: Use a continuity tester or multitester to ensure that the switch creates an open circuit when in the OFF position and a closed circuit when in the ON position.

Step 3: Check the wiring and terminals to ensure that they are properly connected.

Step 4: If the switch does not test correctly, remove and replace it. Some switches are fastened with screws, while others use clips or friction snaps. A few are riveted in place.

Servicing a Power-Head Wire Connection: The canister vacuum’s wire connection between the canister and power head can be a source of problems. If the power head does not operate or operates intermittently, check and tighten each wire connector. Clean the male and female connections with a small piece of emery paper and compressed air if necessary.

Broken wires or worn insulators can sometimes be reconnected and wrapped with electrical tape. However, if the wire is located inside the hose, the hose may need to be replaced.

Servicing a Beater Bar: Servicing a canister vacuum cleaner’s beater bar is similar to that of an upright unit. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove the clips at each end of the beater bar, and pull it and the drive belt from the power-head case. Clean the brush and the two ends by removing any excess pet hair or carpet fibers that get wound into them.

Step 2: In case it is necessary, take off the end cap and flange of the beater bar to detach the brush from the shaft, and then clean or substitute it.

Step 3: Verify the drive belt and replace it if it appears to be worn out or damaged.

Step 4: While reinstalling the beater bar, ensure that there is adequate tension on the drive belt to rotate the bar by pulling on the belt. If the belt seems to be loose, modify it based on the instructions mentioned in the owner’s manual.

Servicing a Motor: The motor for a canister vacuum cleaner is accessible on most models. To test and substitute the motor’s brushes:

Step 1: Open the top cover of the canister and get rid of the motor cover to expose the motor itself.

©2006 Publications International, Ltd. Open the canister’s top cover to access the motor.

Step 2: Place the probes of a continuity tester or multitester on the two wires that lead to the motor from the on/off switch.

Step 3: Rotate the motor shaft a few times by hand. The motor should be tested as a closed circuit with some resistance. If an ohmmeter indicates no resistance or infinite resistance, the motor is probably defective.

Step 4: Verify the motor’s brushes in the same manner, if they are available. Substitute the brushes, if required.

For other motor repairs, take the appliance to an appliance-repair service or motor-repair shop. If the motor needs to be replaced, evaluate the overall condition of the vacuum and consider replacing the complete appliance.

Servicing a Cord Reel: The cord reel on a canister vacuum cleaner is an accessory that simply eases the storage of the cord. It doesn’t clean anything. The cord reel unit is usually located at the back of the canister.

An internal spring provides enough tension to retract the cord onto the reel. The cord reel winds the cord in a circle, so the internal end of the cord must also move in a circle. At the same time, it must be electrically connected to the motor.

To make this work, the cord is connected to a rotating contact called a commutator block. It is a circular conductor of electricity that passes current from the internal end of the cord to a stationary block. If the blocks become dirty or corroded, they will not pass current to the motor. To remove and clean or replace the cord reel:

Step 1: Open the top cover of the canister. Another sealing cover will protect the cord reel — and probably the motor as well — from the vacuum chamber.

Step 2: Depending on whether you’re cleaning or replacing the cord reel, you may need to remove it from the housing. To do so, find the clips or fasteners holding it into place and undo them. If necessary, cut the two wires leading from the cord reel to the motor. In some cases, you may be able to make adjustments and repairs without cutting the motor wires.

Step 3: Clean the cord reel of dirt, then clean the commutator and stationary block with some isopropyl alcohol on a soft rag. If pitted, the blocks should be lightly sanded and wiped clean.

Step 4: Adjust the spring as needed and reinstall the unit in reverse order, replacing any cut wires.

Don’t mess up — read the suggestions on the next page to assist you in fixing a faulty hair dryer.

Fixing Issues with Vacuum Cleaners

Whether you own an upright or canister vacuum, these appliances may encounter several issues while keeping your home clean. Check out this troubleshooting chart for help with resolving any problems.

FAQ

1. What are small appliances?

Small appliances are portable or semi-portable machines used for household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and grooming. Examples of small appliances include toasters, blenders, hair dryers, and vacuum cleaners.

2. Can I repair small appliances on my own?

It depends on the complexity of the appliance and the extent of the damage. Simple repairs such as replacing a burnt-out light bulb or a worn-out cord can be done at home. However, more complicated repairs such as fixing a motor or a circuit board may require professional help.

3. What tools do I need for small appliance repair?

Some of the basic tools needed for small appliance repair include a screwdriver set, pliers, wire cutters, a multimeter, and soldering equipment. However, the specific tools needed may vary depending on the type of appliance and the issue at hand.

4. How can I troubleshoot small appliance problems?

Before attempting any repairs, it is important to identify the problem. Some common issues with small appliances include a faulty switch, a broken heating element, or a clogged filter. The appliance manual or online resources can provide guidance on how to troubleshoot and diagnose the problem.

5. How do I safely repair small appliances?

Safety should be the top priority when repairing small appliances. Always unplug the appliance before attempting any repairs. Wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses when handling electrical components. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use caution when working with sharp or hot parts.

6. When should I consider replacing a small appliance instead of repairing it?

If the appliance is too old or damaged beyond repair, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new one. Additionally, if the cost of repairs is higher than the cost of a new appliance, it may make more sense to purchase a replacement.

7. Where can I find replacement parts for small appliances?

Replacement parts for small appliances can be found at hardware stores, appliance repair shops, and online retailers. It is important to purchase the correct part for the specific make and model of the appliance to ensure proper function and safety.