What To Know
- Look for any visible debris, hair, or other objects tangled around the brush roll or stuck in the vacuum head.
- If the belt is worn, stretched, or broken, it can cause the brush roll to stop spinning, resulting in reduced suction.
- The exhaust port is typically located on the back or side of the vacuum.
Shark vacuums are renowned for their powerful suction and cleaning capabilities. However, even the best vacuums can occasionally lose suction, leaving you frustrated and wondering how to fix shark vacuum that lost suction. Fortunately, most suction problems can be easily resolved with a few simple steps. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common causes of suction loss in Shark vacuums and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them. Whether you have a Shark Navigator, Shark Rotator, or any other Shark vacuum model, these solutions will help you restore its suction power and keep your floors sparkling clean.
1. Check for Clogs and Obstructions
One of the most common reasons for suction loss in Shark vacuums is clogs or obstructions in the vacuum’s airflow path. These obstructions can occur anywhere from the vacuum head to the exhaust port. To check for clogs:
- Inspect the Vacuum Head: Look for any visible debris, hair, or other objects tangled around the brush roll or stuck in the vacuum head.
- Remove the Dirt Tank: Empty the dirt tank and inspect it for any clogs or blockages.
- Check the Hose and Attachments: Disconnect the hose and attachments from the vacuum and inspect them for any kinks, tears, or blockages.
If you find any clogs or obstructions, carefully remove them and reassemble the vacuum.
2. Clean or Replace the Filters
Shark vacuums have multiple filters that help trap dirt and debris. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing the vacuum’s suction power. To clean or replace the filters:
- Locate the Filters: Shark vacuums typically have two filters: a pre-motor filter and a post-motor filter. Consult your vacuum’s user manual for specific filter locations.
- Clean the Pre-Motor Filter: Rinse the pre-motor filter under cold water and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.
- Replace the Post-Motor Filter: Most post-motor filters are disposable and should be replaced every few months.
3. Inspect the Brush Roll
The brush roll is a critical component of your Shark vacuum’s cleaning system. If the brush roll is damaged, worn, or tangled with hair and debris, it can significantly reduce the vacuum’s suction. To inspect the brush roll:
- Remove the Brush Roll: Consult your vacuum’s user manual for instructions on how to remove the brush roll.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for any cracks, tears, or other damage to the brush roll.
- Clean the Brush Roll: Remove any tangled hair or debris from the brush roll and clean it with a damp cloth.
If the brush roll is damaged, replace it with a new one.
4. Check the Belt
Shark vacuums use a belt to drive the brush roll. If the belt is worn, stretched, or broken, it can cause the brush roll to stop spinning, resulting in reduced suction. To check the belt:
- Locate the Belt: The belt is typically located underneath the vacuum. Consult your vacuum’s user manual for specific belt location.
- Inspect the Belt: Look for any signs of wear, stretching, or breakage.
If the belt is damaged, replace it with a new one.
5. Clean the Exhaust Port
The exhaust port is where the vacuum expels air and debris. If the exhaust port is clogged, it can restrict airflow and reduce suction. To clean the exhaust port:
- Locate the Exhaust Port: The exhaust port is typically located on the back or side of the vacuum.
- Remove Obstructions: Clear any visible obstructions from the exhaust port, such as dust, lint, or hair.
- Vacuum the Exhaust Port: Use a crevice tool attachment to vacuum the exhaust port and remove any remaining debris.
6. Reset the Vacuum
Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve suction problems in Shark vacuums. To reset your vacuum:
- Unplug the Vacuum: Disconnect the vacuum from the power outlet.
- Wait a Few Minutes: Allow the vacuum to sit unplugged for a few minutes.
- Plug in the Vacuum: Reconnect the vacuum to the power outlet and turn it on.
7. Contact Shark Customer Support
If you’ve tried all the above solutions and your Shark vacuum still has lost suction, it’s time to contact Shark customer support. They can provide further assistance and, if necessary, arrange for a repair or replacement.
Recommendations: Reclaim Your Shark Vacuum’s Suction Power
With the help of this comprehensive guide, you can now troubleshoot and fix suction problems in your Shark vacuum. Remember, regular maintenance and proper care can help prevent suction loss and keep your Shark vacuum operating at its best. If you encounter any persistent issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Shark customer support for further assistance. By following these steps, you can restore your Shark vacuum’s suction power and maintain a clean and healthy home environment.
What People Want to Know
Q: Why does my Shark vacuum have weak suction?
A: Weak suction can be caused by various factors, such as clogs and obstructions in the vacuum’s airflow path, dirty or clogged filters, a damaged brush roll or belt, a clogged exhaust port, or a need for a simple reset.
Q: How do I clean the filters in my Shark vacuum?
A: To clean the pre-motor filter, rinse it under cold water and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling. For the post-motor filter, most are disposable and should be replaced every few months.
Q: How can I tell if the brush roll on my Shark vacuum is damaged?
A: Inspect the brush roll for any cracks, tears, or other damage. You should also check for tangled hair or debris that may be preventing it from spinning properly.
