Buzz
Get your Dyson vacuum back to peak performance in no time
It’s frustrating when your Dyson vacuum loses its suction power. There are a variety of factors that could be behind this issue. Fortunately, there are simple fixes to restore its cleaning power. This guide provides you with the steps to fix a Dyson vacuum that isn't sucking properly.
Resolving Suction Problems in a Dyson Vacuum
Start by emptying the canister if it’s full. Clean the filters regularly, about every three months. Check the hoses and ducts for any blockages. Look for any signs of damage or leaks in the hoses and seals. If the motor is loud or you notice a burning smell, it may require repair.
How to Fix It
Empty the dust canister.
The canister might be full. If the dirt canister is nearing capacity, it can block the airflow, affecting suction. It’s easy to see when it’s getting full. To empty the canister, hold it over a trash bin and pull the red lever located either on top or the side of the canister. The bottom of the canister will open, releasing the debris into the trash. Afterward, test your vacuum to see if the suction improves.
Clean the filters.
Your filters may be clogged. Dyson suggests cleaning the filters every three months. Handheld vacuums have a filter on top of the canister, while upright ball vacuums have two filters—one above the canister and another inside the ball. To clean, remove the filters and rinse them under running water. Wring out excess water and leave them to air dry for 24 hours. Never put the filters back in the vacuum until they're completely dry.
- For upright ball vacuums, remove the canister, then pull the lever to open the filter compartment above it. Take out the filter.
- To access the filter inside the ball, tilt the vacuum back to expose the ball. Press the button to open the ball compartment, then press the red button inside to release the filter holder. Remove the filter from its holder.
- For handheld vacuums, the filter is usually located on top or at the back. You can easily pull it out by hand. Some models have two filters—one on top and another at the back.
Replace the filter if necessary.
The filter may need to be replaced. If cleaning the filter by rinsing it doesn’t work, or if the filter is showing signs of wear and tear, it's time for a replacement. You can buy a new filter online or at the store where you purchased your Dyson vacuum.
- It’s a good idea to keep an extra filter on hand. That way, you’ll have a spare while you wait for your cleaned filter to dry.
Clean the vacuum head and brush.
The vacuum head could be blocked. The head connects to the ball via a red clip or a push tab. Grab the clip by both ends and pull it off or press the tab in. You should then be able to detach the head easily. Check the ducts from the head to the vacuum for any blockages. Also, inspect the duct leading to the ball. Clear away any dust or debris you find. On some models, you may need to remove the baseplate by flipping the tabs holding it. In other models, there’s a metal release that can be turned with a coin to remove the brush. Clean the brush and the inside of the head after removing the baseplate and/or brush.”
Inspect the hoses for blockages.
The hoses may be obstructed. Most upright ball vacuums have three main hoses: the primary hose running down the back, the changeover valve hose near the bottom, and the lower-duct hose that connects to the bottom ducts. Most models allow you to remove the hoses. Inspect the inside for any blockages and clear them out. Also, check the ducts where the hoses are connected for obstructions.
- When removing the canister, you'll find an opening leading to the main hose. It may have a flap that lifts up to give you access to the duct. Be sure to check for blockages there as well.
Inspect the hoses and seals for any damage.
There could be a leak in the hoses or seals. Stretch the hoses to check for any cracks, holes, or tears. If you find any damage, you might need to replace the hose. Also, inspect the seals where the hoses, canister, and head connect, ensuring there are no leaks around them and everything is tightly sealed.
Examine the motor.
The motor may be malfunctioning. If you hear unusual grinding sounds or detect a burning odor, it’s likely that the motor is damaged. In this case, your vacuum may need repairs or even replacement. If your vacuum is older, it could be nearing the end of its lifespan.
