Bissell Crosswave Not Suctioning? (4 Fixes Now!)

Ever been there? You’re staring down a floor covered in the aftermath of a toddler art project gone wild. Spaghetti sauce, glitter, the works.

You grab your trusty Bissell Crosswave, your cleaning superhero, ready to tackle the mess.

But then… nothing. No satisfying whoosh of suction, just a sad, sputtering sound.

The mess remains, mocking you. The panic sets in. Sound familiar? Don’t worry, I’ve been there too!

As a flooring contractor, I’ve seen it all. And I’ve learned a thing or two about keeping cleaning equipment in tip-top shape.

Let’s get your Crosswave back in action with these four fixes.

Section 1: Understanding the Bissell Crosswave

The Bissell Crosswave is a game-changer. It’s not just a vacuum; it vacuums and washes your floors at the same time.

Think of it as the ultimate multitasking marvel for busy households. It sprays cleaning solution while the brush roll scrubs away dirt, and then the suction pulls everything up into the dirty water tank.

Pretty neat, right?

The magic of the Crosswave lies in its suction power. Without it, you’re just pushing dirty water around, and nobody wants that.

Suction is what lifts the grime, the spills, the pet hair, leaving your floors clean and dry.

When that suction goes AWOL, it’s not just annoying; it defeats the whole purpose of having a Crosswave.

Section 2: Common Signs of Suction Issues

How do you know if your Crosswave’s suction is on the fritz? Here are some telltale signs I’ve seen over the years:

• Weak Suction or No Suction At All: This one’s obvious. You run the Crosswave over a spill, and it just sits there, unbothered.

• Unusual Noises During Operation: Is your Crosswave making a weird gurgling, whining, or high-pitched squealing sound? That’s often a sign of a blockage or a struggling motor.

• Visible Debris Left on the Floor Post-Cleaning: You’ve gone over the area, but crumbs, hair, or dirt particles are still stubbornly clinging to your floor.

• Water Pooling or Inadequate Cleaning Solution Dispensing: If the floor is soaking wet after you’ve used the Crosswave, it means the suction isn’t picking up the water properly. Sometimes, it’s linked to solution dispensing issues too.

These issues aren’t just cosmetic. They can make your cleaning routine less effective and even damage your floors over time.

Imagine constantly leaving a thin film of dirty water on your hardwood – not ideal, right?

Section 3: Fix #1 – Checking the Filter

Let’s dive into the first fix. It’s often the simplest, and you’d be surprised how often it’s the culprit: the filter.

Think of the filter as your Crosswave’s lungs. It prevents dirt and debris from getting into the motor, which is crucial for maintaining suction.

But just like your lungs, the filter can get clogged. A dirty filter restricts airflow, which directly impacts suction power.

Here’s how to check, clean, or replace the filter:

1. Locate the Filter: On most Crosswave models, the filter is located near the dirty water tank. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.

2. Remove the Filter: Gently pull the filter out of its housing.

3. Inspect the Filter: Take a good look at it. Is it covered in dust, hair, or other debris? If so, it’s time for a cleaning.

4. Clean the Filter: Rinse the filter under warm water. You can use a mild detergent if it’s particularly dirty. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.

5. Dry the Filter: Allow the filter to air dry completely before putting it back in the Crosswave. Never put a wet filter back in the machine.

6. Replace the Filter (If Necessary): If the filter is damaged, torn, or excessively dirty, it’s best to replace it. You can purchase replacement filters online or at most retailers that sell Bissell products.

How Often Should You Check the Filter?

I recommend checking the filter after every few uses, especially if you have pets or live in a dusty environment.

A quick rinse can go a long way in maintaining your Crosswave’s suction power and prolonging the life of the filter.

Section 4: Fix #2 – Inspecting the Brush Roll

Next up, let’s talk about the brush roll. It’s the unsung hero of the Crosswave, responsible for scrubbing and agitating dirt and debris from your floors.

But a tangled, gunked-up brush roll can seriously hinder suction. Imagine trying to vacuum with a sock stuck in the hose – that’s essentially what a blocked brush roll does.

Here’s how to inspect and clean the brush roll:

1. Turn Off and Unplug the Crosswave: Safety first!

2. Locate the Brush Roll: The brush roll is located on the bottom of the Crosswave cleaning head.

3. Remove the Brush Roll: Most Crosswave models have a small tab or latch that you need to release to remove the brush roll. Again, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

4. Inspect the Brush Roll: Examine the brush roll closely. Are there any tangled hairs, strings, or debris wrapped around it? Is the brush roll visibly dirty or clogged?

5. Remove Debris: Use scissors or a seam ripper to carefully cut and remove any tangled hairs or strings. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bristles.

6. Clean the Brush Roll: Rinse the brush roll under warm water. You can use a mild detergent and a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or grime.

7. Dry the Brush Roll: Allow the brush roll to air dry completely before putting it back in the Crosswave.

8. Reinstall the Brush Roll: Once the brush roll is dry, reinstall it in the cleaning head, making sure it clicks or locks into place securely.

Pro Tip: I find that using a small hook or a dental pick can be really helpful for removing stubborn debris from the brush roll.

Section 5: Fix #3 – Examining the Hose and Connections

Time to tackle the hose and connections. Even if the filter and brush roll are clean, a blockage in the hose can completely kill your Crosswave’s suction.

Think of it like this: your Crosswave is trying to suck up dirt and water, but it’s like trying to drink through a straw with a kink in it. It’s just not going to work.

Here’s how to inspect and clean the hose:

1. Disconnect the Hose: On most Crosswave models, the hose is located on the back of the machine. Disconnect it from both the machine and the cleaning head.

2. Inspect the Hose: Hold the hose up to the light and look for any visible blockages, cracks, or damage. You can also try bending the hose in different places to see if you can feel any obstructions.

3. Flush the Hose: Run water through the hose to flush out any loose debris. You can use a garden hose or a faucet with a strong stream of water.

4. Use a Flexible Tool: If you suspect there’s a stubborn blockage, use a flexible tool like a drain snake or a straightened coat hanger to dislodge it. Be careful not to puncture or damage the hose.

5. Check the Connections: Inspect the connections where the hose attaches to the machine and the cleaning head. Make sure they are clean, secure, and free of any debris.

6. Reassemble and Test: Once you’ve cleaned and inspected the hose, reattach it to the machine and the cleaning head. Turn on the Crosswave and test the suction.

Important Note: If you find any cracks or damage to the hose, it’s essential to replace it. A damaged hose can leak water and reduce suction power.

Section 6: Fix #4 – Assessing the Water Tank and Solution Dispensing

Last but not least, let’s check the water tank and solution dispensing system.

Believe it or not, issues with the water tank can also affect suction. If the tank isn’t properly sealed or if the solution dispensing system is clogged, it can create air leaks that reduce suction power.

Here’s what to check:

1. Inspect the Water Tank: Make sure the water tank is properly seated and sealed on the Crosswave. Check for any cracks or damage to the tank.

2. Clean the Water Tank: Rinse the water tank thoroughly with warm water. You can use a mild detergent if necessary. Pay attention to the areas around the fill cap and the solution dispensing nozzle.

3. Check the Solution Dispensing Nozzle: The solution dispensing nozzle is a small opening that releases the cleaning solution onto the floor. Make sure this nozzle is clear and free of any clogs.

4. Flush the Solution Dispensing System: Fill the water tank with clean water and run the Crosswave for a few minutes to flush out the solution dispensing system. This can help to dislodge any clogs.

5. Use the Correct Cleaning Solution: Always use the cleaning solution that is specifically designed for the Bissell Crosswave. Using the wrong cleaning solution can clog the system and damage the machine.

A Word of Caution: Never use bleach or other harsh chemicals in the Crosswave. These chemicals can damage the machine and potentially harm your floors.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Four fixes that can breathe new life into your struggling Bissell Crosswave.

Remember that spaghetti sauce explosion from the beginning? Imagine tackling it now, with your Crosswave humming happily, suctioning up every last trace of mess.

The satisfaction of a clean floor, the relief of knowing you’ve conquered the chaos – that’s what it’s all about.

Don’t be intimidated by maintenance. Think of it as an investment in your cleaning routine and the longevity of your Crosswave.

A little bit of preventative care can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration in the long run.

Now go forth and conquer those floors! You got this!

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