Dyson Vacuum Not Sucking? Here’s What You Need to Do
Have you experienced your Dyson vacuum not sucking as it should? It can be frustrating when you need to clean your floors, but your vacuum just doesn’t seem to be picking up any dirt or debris.
In this article, we’ll cover some common causes of suction issues with Dyson vacuums, as well as potential solutions. Whether you have a cordless model, upright model, or canister model, keep reading to learn how to get your Dyson vacuum cleaner working properly again.
Dyson Vacuum Not Sucking: What To Check
Dyson vacuums are known for their powerful suction and efficient cleaning, but even the best machines can experience some issues. If you notice your Dyson vacuum not sucking properly, there are several things you can check to identify and fix the problem.
Check the roller
When your Dyson vacuum is not sucking as it should, one common cause could be a clogged roller. Though the motor may still be functional, debris caught up in the roller can significantly reduce suction power. If that is the case, clearing the roller of all debris could be the solution to your Dyson’s suction problems.
Firstly, make sure that your vacuum is unplugged before doing any inspection. Turning the machine upside down will give you better access to the roller. The roller is most likely clogged up with cotton, strings, hair, and other types of debris, especially if you have pets or rugs with edgings.
The plate surrounding the roller can be removed, with just a quarter turn of a screwdriver, to allow better access to the brushes and roller. While it may be tempting to remove the plate entirely, it is not advised. The plate is held in place by a rubber belt, which makes putting it back together tricky. Instead, focus on cutting out any cotton and hair trapped in the roller.
It may take several minutes to clear out all the debris, but it’s critical to do a thorough job. Once you’re done, make sure that the roller is entirely clear before putting the guard back in place. A clean roller will enhance your vacuum’s suction power and restore the efficiency of your Dyson vacuum cleaner.
Check the filters
Another common cause of poor suction in a Dyson vacuum is clogged filters. Over time, dust and debris can build up in the filters, reducing the amount of air that passes through and decreasing suction power.
Check the Filters: The Key to Restoring Suction Power
To maintain or restore your Dyson vacuum’s suction power, you need to pay special attention to the filters. Over time, these filters collect dirt, dust, and debris, which can clog them up and cause suction issues. Fortunately, Dyson vacuums usually have washable filters designed to be reused. Here are the steps to take:
Identify Your Model:
Before you can start cleaning the filters of your Dyson vacuum cleaner, you need to determine the model number. You can usually find this number on a sticker located behind the clear bin, at the bottom between the wheels, or behind the hose. Once you have found the number, visit the Dyson website to register your machine and access relevant troubleshooting pages.
Look for Cleaning Filter Topics:
After finding your model, select the “Cleaning the filters” topic and watch the tutorial video. Every model needs different cleaning strategies and frequencies. Some models like the DC17 and DC35 require a pre-soak, while others don’t need any pre-treatment. The video will show you how to remove the filter from the machine and how often you should wash it.
Wash the Filter:
Fill a large bowl with cold water and immerse the filters. Leave them in the water for at least five minutes and repeat this process until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze the filters and then allow them to air dry. Always ensure the filter is completely dry before reinserting it.
Check the hose
One of the common reasons for a Dyson vacuum to lose suction is a blockage in the hose. To check if this is the case, detach the hose from the inlet and inspect the suction. If the suction is strong, then the blockage is likely in the extension wand or hose.
Inspect the extension wand by looking inside it under the light. If your view is obstructed, then the blockage is within the extension wand. Otherwise, the blockage is in the hose.
Clear out any obstructions with a wire hanger. For a Dyson upright, remove the clear bin and check the cleaning tool and cleaning head for blockages. Hair and debris are common culprits. Use a clothes hanger to clear out dirt accumulated inside the head, particularly on the topmost shelf.
If the blockage persists, try running vinegar through the hose to dissolve any clogs. Simply fill the hose with vinegar, then rinse it out with hot water. Note that this is not recommended for all Dyson models and consult the user manual before doing this.
Check the bin
Ensuring that your Dyson vacuum is consistently providing optimal suction performance requires regular maintenance. One of the key areas that can lead to weak suction is a full collection bin.
If you notice that the suction appears to be lacking or significantly reduced, it is recommended to check the bin first. An overly full bin can lead to a decrease in suction power, making it necessary to empty it before continuing to use the vacuum.
In addition to emptying the bin itself, it’s important to check the seals surrounding the bin. Ensuring a tight seal when replacing the bin can help to maintain optimal suction levels.
By regularly checking and maintaining the bin and seals, you can ensure that your vacuum operates at its best, continuing to provide powerful suction and thorough cleaning capabilities for your home.
Check the nozzle
If you are experiencing suction issues with your handheld Dyson unit, then it is essential to examine the nozzle before anything else. The nozzle is the primary point where blockages or obstructions could occur. Once you remove the nozzle from the vacuum, check for any visible signs of blockages or debris that may have accumulated inside.
Cleaning the nozzle is a simple yet crucial step to ensure the proper functioning of your Dyson handheld. If any blockage is detected, clear it with a cleaning tool or a cloth. You can also use a soft brush to clean any dust build-up or debris clogged in the nozzle.
A handheld Dyson vacuum is a powerful device, but with regular use, dust and hair can clog the nozzle and reduce its suction power. Keeping an eye on the nozzle’s cleanliness is essential to ensure that the vacuum cleaner functions correctly and has maximum suction power.
If you own a Dyson ball vacuum cleaner, you need to check the nozzle too for any blockage or obstruction. Although the nozzle design might be different from your handheld unit, still any blockage in this area would negatively affect your vacuum’s suction power. Take the necessary steps to clean the nozzle of your Dyson ball vacuum while keeping it out of reach of children or pets.
Check the U-bend pipe
As a Dyson vacuum user, you might encounter suction problems that can be easily fixed. One of the most common causes of this issue is blockages in the U-bend pipe. This component is located at the back of the vacuum and connects the attachment hose to the dust container, ensuring that debris and dust are collected effectively.
To diagnose if blockages in the U-bend pipe affect your vacuum’s performance, check if it is transparent or opaque. If it is the former, any blockages will be easy to spot without removing the part. If the pipe is opaque, check if it is clogged by carefully removing it and blowing it into one end. If air doesn’t flow freely, clean the pipe thoroughly before reattaching it to the machine.
Check the side valve
When you’re experiencing issues with suction power, it’s important to check every component of your vacuum – including the side valve. This small part can play a big role in the strength of your machine, and it’s essential to ensure it stays clean and free of blockages.
To begin, locate the side valve on your Dyson vacuum. This can be found on the side of the machine, and you can remove it by pushing the button located near it. Once the valve is removed, you can inspect it for any signs of dirt, debris, or other blockages.
If you suspect the side valve may be causing suction issues, you can test it by blowing into one end and feeling if air flows through to the other side. If the valve is working as it should, you should feel air coming out the other side with ease. However, if there are blockages in the valve, you will not feel any air coming out from the other end.
To clean the valve, simply wipe it down with a soft clean cloth dipped in warm water. Be sure to remove any debris or dirt that is visible, being careful not to damage the valve itself. Once the valve is completely clean, reattach it to the machine and test to ensure suction has improved.
Regularly checking and cleaning the side valve on your Dyson vacuum can help prolong the life of your machine and ensure that it continues to perform at its best. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and use only recommended cleaning materials to avoid any damage.
Check the bristles
Vacuum cleaners are the go-to for keeping our indoor environments clean and healthy. However, with regular use, especially if your vacuum is a few years old, the vacuum brush bristles may wear out and lose their sharpness. If your Dyson vacuum has lost suction, it may be time to check those bristles.
When the vacuum brush bar bristles wear out and become blunt, they tend to form a stack of dust, pet hair, and debris. This means that the vacuum can no longer suck as it used to and requires more effort to pick up dirt and dust from the floor.
To solve this problem, it is necessary to ensure that the Dyson vacuum brush bar bristles are sharp like those of a new toothbrush. If they are blunt, you should consider replacing the whole brush bar with a genuine replacement part to ensure that it works effectively. This replacement process can be done easily by using the brush control button and the wand release button located on the machine.
Brush Bar Blockage
Brush bar blockages can be a common issue with Dyson vacuums, leading to a loss of suction and decreased performance. Even worse, a severe blockage can cause the thermal fuse to trip and shut down the vacuum entirely.
If you suspect your vacuum has a brush bar blockage, the first thing you should do is unplug the vacuum and proceed with caution. Carefully flip the vacuum over and inspect the area surrounding the brush bar, looking for any debris or paper that may be caught.
Once you’ve identified any blockages, it’s time to remove the debris and clean the brush bar. Doing so will help ensure your Dyson vacuum operates at peak performance and maintains strong suction levels. Overall, it’s important to keep the brush bar and other components of your Dyson vacuum clean and free of debris to avoid suction issues.
Wand and Airways
If your Dyson vacuum is experiencing a loss of suction, the wand and airways may be the culprits. Promptly unplug the vacuum and take caution when checking both of these areas.
The wand is a detachable part that easily connects to various cleaning accessories. You can easily identify a blockage in the wand by looking through it. If it is clear, move on to the airways.
To access the airways, start by removing the filter cover. The airways lead to the filters and could be one of the reasons for the suction loss. Make sure to check and clear any potential blockages before moving on.
Cleaner Head Blockage
A common reason for the suction loss in Dyson vacuums is a blockage in the cleaner head. This part of the vacuum can become clogged with debris, which restricts the airflow and reduces the suction power. To access the air passage of the cleaner head, the base plate must be removed.
To remove the cleaner head, begin by locating the “C” clip that holds it in place. Remove this clip and separate the cleaner head from the vacuum properly. Turn the cleaner head dials one-quarter turn until they click, which will allow you to lay the cleaner head onto its back.
Next, lift up the top edge of the base plate and rotate it into an upright position. Lift it out, and check the area for any blockages. You may find that the brush bar or soleplate is clogged with hair, dust, or other debris, which is preventing the cleaner head from functioning properly. Clean this area thoroughly before reassembling the vacuum.
Regularly checking and clearing any blockages in the cleaner head can help to maintain your Dyson’s suction performance and ensure effective cleaning.
How do I recognize that my Dyson vacuum cleaner no longer sucks?
When a Dyson vacuum is no longer able to suck up dirt and debris, it can alert you through various indicators. For example, newer Dyson models equipped with an LCD display will display a message on the screen alerting you that there is no suction power. For those without an LCD display, there may be a sudden light that appears when no suction power is detected.
Additionally, you can determine if your Dyson vacuum is no longer sucking by paying attention to how the vacuum feels during use. If you notice a pulsation or vibration while vacuuming, it may indicate that the vacuum is struggling to maintain suction.
Several common culprits can contribute to a Dyson vacuum’s loss of suction power, including a clogged roller, filters that need cleaning or replacement, a blocked hose or bin, and a U-bend pipe or side valve that is not functioning correctly.
To troubleshoot the issue, begin by cleaning the filters and checking the hoses and nozzles for blockages or damage. Also, inspect the bristles on the roller, as they may have become tangled or clogged with debris, hindering the vacuum’s ability to suction dirt and debris.
Notifications when no suction power
When using a Dyson vacuum cleaner, it is important to stay aware of any notifications that indicate a lack of suction power. You might receive an explicit message on the LCD screen that says “Dyson airway blocked” or notice the vacuum pulsing and stuttering during use. The lights near the battery may also turn on, communicating the suction loss to the user.
However, if there are no notifications, you can still tell that something is wrong as the vacuum won’t pick up any dirt when used. This lack of suction power could be due to suction leaks, especially around the hose, wand, and connections, which may need tightening to create a tight seal.
Reasons why a Dyson no longer sucks
A Dyson vacuum cleaner is a powerful machine, but sometimes it may lose suction power. There can be several reasons why this is happening, but the most common cause is a blockage in the air duct. If you are experiencing this issue, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot.
Firstly, check if the dust container is too full. If it is, empty it and try the vacuum cleaner again. If the dust container is not the problem, check for any blockages in the air duct. Sometimes, items can get lodged in the duct, which can reduce suction power.
Another common cause is clogged filters. Filters are essential components of vacuum cleaners that prevent dust and debris from entering the motor. If they are clogged or dirty, it can have a significant impact on the suction power. Therefore, it’s essential to clean or replace them.
Low battery life can also cause Dyson vacuum cleaners to lose suction power. If you have a cordless model, make sure to charge the battery fully before using it. If it still doesn’t work properly, replace the battery pack to see if it resolves the issue.
Suppose you are using a motorized brush bar on the wrong floor type. In that case, it can get stuck, leading to reduced suction power. When you use a soft fluffy brush bar on a deep-pile carpet, it can’t spin correctly, making the vacuum cleaner sound normal but without any suction power.
Lastly, if there is an air leak due to the poor connection of Dyson parts, it can lead to a loss of suction power. If you suspect this is the problem, check for any leaks or loose connections and tighten them until the issue is resolved.
To avoid any suction issues, ensure the filters are cleaned or replaced regularly, the dust container is emptied, and you’re using the correct brush bar. By taking these steps, your Dyson vacuum cleaner will be operating at optimal performance.
Tips On Using Dyson Vacuums
Choosing the right model is key to maximizing the efficiency of your Dyson vacuum. Dyson offers a variety of models, each designed for specific home sizes and floor types. Investing in a model that fits your needs will make a significant difference in the speed and ease of your cleaning sessions.
Take advantage of the different settings that Dyson has designed for your vacuum. It’s important to use the correct setting for the floor type you need to clean. Using the wrong setting can cause suction issues or even damage the vacuum cleaner. Make sure to refer to the user manual for recommendations on which setting to use.
Maintaining your Dyson vacuum regularly will not only prolong its lifespan but also ensure that it remains efficient. Following the recommended routine in your user manual is crucial. This could include emptying the bin, washing the filters, and cleaning the brush bar regularly. Neglecting to do so might result in a loss of suction power, blockages, or other issues that could affect the performance of your vacuum.
FAQs
Why is my Dyson not working properly?
There could be several reasons why your Dyson vacuum is not working correctly. Factors like loss of suction, brush bar issues, pulsating without any reason, and inefficient debris pickup could be the underlying reasons. The vacuum’s performance issues may be due to various problems like dirty filters, clogged hoses, or dust containers.
To troubleshoot, a thorough check of the battery, cord, and cleaning tools is essential to start with. Identifying and addressing the particular problem depends on the specific issue your Dyson vacuum is experiencing.
How often should you replace your Dyson vacuum filter?
To maintain the optimal performance of your Dyson vacuum, it is essential to keep the filters clean and free from blockages. The frequency of filter replacements varies depending on how often you use the vacuum and the extent of dirt accumulation.
While the user manual provides information on how to clean and maintain the vacuum, it is recommended to replace the filters annually to ensure uninterrupted suction power. Genuine filters can be purchased directly from Dyson to guarantee the best fit and compatibility with specific vacuum models.
How do I fix the suction on my vacuum?
To fix suction on your vacuum, first, inspect the hose and extension wand for blockages. Follow this by cleaning the filters and emptying the dirt bin. If the motor still doesn’t work, contact Dyson’s support team for assistance.
Conclusion:
If you are experiencing suction issues with your Dyson vacuum, there are several things you can do to resolve the problem. First, check the filters for dirt and debris and wash them if necessary. Next, inspect the brush bar for blockages and clean it if needed.
If the suction hose or inlet suction is blocked, use the extension wand to clear any obstructions. Finally, if the issue persists, consider replacing the filter or hose with genuine Dyson replacements.
By following these steps, you can ensure your Dyson vacuum maintains its strong suction power and continues to effectively clean your floors and furniture.
