How to Fix a Clogged Vacuum Cleaner

Vacuums make great home cleaning partners. However, they can be quite frustrating when it comes to having to fix a clogged vacuum cleaner. A backed-up vacuum problem is inevitable for all regular users of vacuum cleaners. However, the issue becomes a constant struggle if you have a pet or a young child since toys and pet hair clumps are the most common causes of clogs in a vacuum.

This guide demonstrates how to unclog a vacuum cleaner fast so that you can enjoy its benefits for years without any frustration.

Unclogging a vacuum cleaner

You’ll know a vacuum is blocked if it stops picking up dirt, starts blowing out dust, or loses suction. When any of these signs appear, prepare for the unclogging process by laying out all the tools needed for the procedure first.

Having the right tools ready at the start of any DIY project is crucial. It saves time and makes the process fun. In this case, you’ll need a few items that are available in your home, including:

• Metallic Hanger
• Broomstick
• Gloves
• A Penny

Once you have all the tools at hand, follow the steps below.

Step 1: finding & removing clogs in a vacuum

Doing this involves inspecting the parts that get blocked from time to time. Often, clogs occur in the vacuum’s head, hose, the region where the hose connects with the body, and the filters. Here’s how to find and remove clogs in each of these parts.

Unclogging the vacuum head

Turn the vacuum upside down and search for balls of dust, fluff, and hair on the brush bar or roller.

If you see anything stuck on the roller or brush bar, put on your gloves and pull it out with your hands. Be careful not to use excessive force when removing the block to avoid damaging the brush. Preferably, take it out before cleaning. It’s faster and safer this way.

Unclogging a vacuum hose

Separate the hose from the attachments on both sides. Then, hold it up and drop a coin from one end.

The coin will come out the other end if there is no obstruction. If it doesn’t, something is blocking it. Insert a broomstick on one end and push it down to force the clog out through the opposite end. Be gentle during the process to avoid puncturing the hose as it may cause irreparable damage to the vacuum.

Unclogging the part where the hose connects to the vacuum’s body

Wear your gloves and poke your finger into the area to feel for any blockage.

If you feel a big clog, pull it out using your hands. However, if the clog is tiny, remove it with a hanger. To do this, extend the hanger and create a slight curve resembling a hook on the upper part. Then, push the curved part into the area and turn it to the side to hold the clog before pulling it out.

Unclogging the vacuum filter

Dismantle the vacuum and remove the filter to look for excessive dust, fibers, fluff, and hair. While inspecting the filter, pull out any visible clogs with your hands before rinsing it with a lot of water to clean out any residue.

After that, let it dry for about twelve hours to prevent mold and mildew from growing on it once it’s back into the vacuum.

Step 2: reassembling and testing

Putting the vacuum back together and testing it out is the last step. You might need to use your user manual to ensure everything attaches as it should.

If you followed all the steps to the latter, the vacuum should continue working well. But if not, you will have to restart the unclogging process to figure out where you went wrong and make the necessary adjustments.

Generally, a vacuum cleaner is an essential household item. It makes regular home cleaning easy and fun for everyone. And with this two-step guide, you no longer have to worry about it getting backed up since you can fix it fast.

Now that you know how to fix a clogged vacuum, you can continue to use yours to keep your home in tip-top shape throughout and enjoy all the health benefits that come with a clean home environment without any stress. Be sure to check out our vacuum cleaner preventive maintenance checklist to help extend its life.