Easily the number one reason our repair centre sees for blown motors is after picking up very fine plaster/cement dust. This type of dust is particularly messy and get through filters. If it gets through the motor filter, particles can settle on the motor bearings and act as an abrasive to wear it down.. Sometimes we see this dust clogging up the electrics of the motor causing short circuits. If you use your vacuum cleaner for this purpose, be aware of the above and show extra care at this time to maintain your machine. If you engage a builder or tradesman, ensure that you make a point of telling them upfront that your vacuum cleaner is not to be used and that they should bring their own to clean up when they have finished their work.

 

Many manufacturers recommend an annual service for your vacuum cleaner. This is important, not only to actually clean and service your vacuum cleaner, but also to alert you to potential problems caused by overfilled bags, blocked filters or hoses, etc. With a serviced machine and a well maintained filtration system, you can expect a longer, more effective life from your vacuum cleaner.

No. Never use plastic bags in your vacuum cleaner. This has the effect of suffocating your machine from a cooling airflow and will almost certainly damage your vacuum cleaner. Use only proper vacuum cleaner bags made to fit your model. These bags are a special type of material that stop the dirt whilst allowing a good airflow through your machine.

Most machines that have the ability to pick up water will clearly show this on the machine, such as "Wet/dry Vac", etc. Typically, wet/dry machines are canister style with the motor that lifts off the top of the canister and some type of float mechanism under the motor (to stop excessive filling). If you use a dry only machine to pick up water, it will almost certainly damage your machine and could be dangerous to you.

Yes, but ensure that any coals are entirely cold (not even slightly warm) and that you check the filters after as charcoal dust is very fine.

It is really a matter of personal preference as there are fors and against for both. In general, whilst bag machines require you to replace bags but mean less direct handling of dust, bag less machines require more maintenance to empty and clean filters.

It is a fairly common perception that an upright will be easier for people with a sore back. If you have a sore back, you definitely should look at a cleaning system with a spinning brush system - and whilst this does include uprights, it also includes barrel vacuum cleaners with a turbo or power head, which can be even lighter to operate.

Our experience shows that work vacuum cleaners can be used by a number of different people and, with all their best intentions, can be treated harshly. Commercial vacuum cleaners, even small ones are built to be more robust and with less features than domestic vacuum cleaners. In the long run it could be better economy to supply your place of work with a vacuum cleaner more suited to the task.

Often you can remove or reduce a musty smell by replacing bags and filters. If you get your vacuum cleaner serviced this will be done as well as having your motor blown clean. If you have a cloth bag (particularly the type that cannot be washed), you should replace it or try to find a paper bag replacement. You can also purchase specially made perfumed pads for your vacuum cleaner that are placed after the last filter and perfume the air as it exits your vacuum cleaner.

It is most likely that your drive belt has either stretched or broken. This can happen over time just through wear and tear. The belt also acts as a safety valve if you accidentally try to pick up something which jams the spinning brush - rather than the motor taking the stress, the belt will break. (Hint: If you have a rug with tassels, always work an upright or power brush from the rug to the floor rather than the other way.)

If your vacuum cleaner motor is too noisy, it may be too late. Take it to your nearest D&R Vacuum store and get us to take a look at it. Sometimes a service can help prolong the life of your vacuum cleaner.

Many vacuum cleaners have a dust bag full indicator. These can be used as a guide but are not foolproof. Periodically check the bag and ensure that it doesn't get too full.

Machines vary and manufacturers instructions will differ from model to model. In general check your filters to ensure that they are not blocked with dirt. Some, not all, filters are washable and should be washed according to manufacturers instructions. If filters are not maintained, the air that exits your machine will not be as clean and blockages may put extra stress on the vacuum cleaner motor and reduce its effective life.