Bissell Vacuum Not Suctioning? (2 Fixes Now!)

As a flooring contractor, I’ve seen my fair share of messes.

We all know that household appliances, especially vacuums, take a beating over time.

Think about it – they’re constantly sucking up dust, dirt, pet hair, and who knows what else!

That’s why maintaining your vacuum cleaner is super important to keep it running smoothly.

Today, let’s talk about a common issue I hear about all the time:

Bissell vacuums losing suction.

Bissell is a popular brand for a reason.

They’re known for their reliability and how well they clean up everyday messes.

But like any machine, they can run into problems.

One of the most frustrating? Loss of suction.

Don’t worry, though!

I’m here to walk you through some simple fixes that can get your Bissell back in tip-top shape.

Understanding the Importance of Suction Power

So, what exactly is suction power, and why does it matter so much for your vacuum?

Simply put, suction power is the force that lifts dirt and debris off your floors and into the vacuum.

Think of it like this: it’s the engine that drives the whole cleaning process.

Without strong suction, your vacuum is basically just pushing dirt around instead of picking it up.

Common Causes of Loss of Suction

Now, what causes a vacuum to lose its oomph?

Well, there are a few common culprits, especially in Bissell models:

Clogged filters: This is the most frequent offender. Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing suction.
Blocked hoses: Anything from large debris to clumps of hair can get stuck in the hose, creating a blockage.
Full dustbin/bag: An overfilled dustbin or bag leaves no room for new debris, hindering suction.
Worn belts: If your Bissell has a brush roll, a worn belt can prevent it from spinning properly, affecting suction.
Leaks: Cracks or holes in the hose or attachments can cause air to escape, weakening suction.

Wear-and-Tear: The Inevitable Enemy

Like any machine, your Bissell vacuum experiences wear and tear over time.

Think of it like your car – you need to change the oil, rotate the tires, and so on to keep it running well.

The same goes for your vacuum.

Over time, belts can stretch and crack, filters can become clogged, and hoses can develop leaks.

Regular maintenance can help slow down this process, but eventually, parts will need to be replaced.

Common Symptoms of Suction Problems

How do you know if your Bissell vacuum is struggling with its suction?

Here are some telltale signs:

Reduced airflow: This is the most obvious symptom. If you don’t feel a strong pull when you hold your hand near the hose or brush head, suction is likely weak.
Unusual sounds: A struggling motor or whistling sounds can indicate a blockage or leak.
Ineffective cleaning: If you’re going over the same spot multiple times and still not picking up dirt, suction is probably the issue.
Overheating: A clogged vacuum has to work harder, which can cause the motor to overheat.

I’ve heard from countless homeowners who’ve experienced these frustrations.

One person told me, “I was vacuuming my rug, and it just wasn’t picking anything up! I had to go over it like five times before it looked clean.”

Another said, “My vacuum started making this weird whining noise, and the suction just disappeared. It was so frustrating!”

These stories highlight the importance of addressing suction issues promptly.

Ignoring the problem can lead to further damage to your vacuum and a whole lot of cleaning headaches.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty fixes, let’s go through some basic troubleshooting steps.

These are quick and easy things you can check before assuming the worst.

Checking the Power Source

First things first, make sure your vacuum is actually plugged in and getting power.

I know it sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often this is the culprit!

Check the outlet to make sure it’s working properly.

You can test it by plugging in another appliance.

Also, inspect the power cord for any damage, such as cuts or frayed wires.

If you see any damage, don’t use the vacuum until the cord is repaired or replaced.

Inspecting for Visible Blockages

Next, take a good look at the hose and brush roll.

Are there any visible clumps of hair, large pieces of debris, or anything else that could be causing a blockage?

Remove any visible obstructions you can easily reach.

Sometimes, a simple blockage is all that’s standing between you and strong suction.

Cleaning or Replacing Filters

Finally, check the filters.

As I mentioned earlier, dirty filters are a common cause of suction loss.

Most Bissell vacuums have multiple filters, including a pre-motor filter and a post-motor filter.

Refer to your vacuum’s manual for instructions on how to access and clean or replace the filters.

I’ll go into more detail about filter maintenance in the next section, but for now, just give them a quick check.

Fix #1: Cleaning the Filters

Alright, let’s get to our first fix: cleaning or replacing the vacuum filters.

This is often the easiest and most effective way to restore suction power to your Bissell vacuum.

How Filters Maintain Suction Power

Filters play a crucial role in maintaining suction.

They trap dust, dirt, and allergens, preventing them from entering the motor and other components.

Over time, these filters become clogged, restricting airflow and reducing suction.

Think of it like trying to breathe through a stuffed-up nose – it’s hard to get enough air!

Step-by-Step Guide to Filter Maintenance

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean or replace filters in Bissell vacuums:

Locate the filters: Refer to your vacuum’s manual to find the location of the pre-motor and post-motor filters. They’re usually located near the dustbin or motor.
Remove the filters: Carefully remove the filters from their housing. Some filters may be washable, while others need to be replaced.
Clean washable filters: If your filters are washable, rinse them thoroughly with water. You can use a mild detergent if needed. Make sure to let them dry completely before putting them back in the vacuum.
Replace non-washable filters: If your filters are not washable, replace them with new ones. You can purchase replacement filters from Bissell or other retailers.
Reinstall the filters: Once the filters are clean and dry (or replaced), reinstall them in their housing. Make sure they’re properly seated.

Tips on Filter Maintenance Frequency

How often should you clean or replace your vacuum filters?

It depends on how often you use your vacuum and the type of debris you’re cleaning up.

As a general rule, you should clean washable filters every 3-6 months and replace non-washable filters every 6-12 months.

If you have pets or allergies, you may need to clean or replace your filters more frequently.

I always recommend checking your filters regularly and cleaning or replacing them as needed.

It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your vacuum’s performance.

Fix #2: Unclogging the Hose and Brush Roll

Now, let’s move on to our second fix: unclogging the hose and brush roll.

This is another common issue that can significantly impact your Bissell vacuum’s suction power.

Common Causes of Clogs

Clogs can occur in the hose, brush roll, or other parts of the vacuum.

Common causes include:

Hair: Long hair, especially pet hair, can easily wrap around the brush roll and clog the hose.
Large debris: Pieces of food, toys, or other large objects can get stuck in the hose.
Dust and dirt: Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate in the hose, creating a blockage.

Detaching and Inspecting Components

Here’s how to detach and inspect the hose and brush roll for clogs:

Detach the hose: Most Bissell vacuums have a detachable hose. Refer to your vacuum’s manual for instructions on how to remove the hose.
Inspect the hose: Once the hose is detached, look through it to see if you can spot any blockages. You can also use a flashlight to get a better view.
Detach the brush roll: If your vacuum has a brush roll, detach it according to the instructions in your manual.
Inspect the brush roll: Look for hair, string, or other debris wrapped around the brush roll.

Tools for Unclogging

If you find a clog, here are some tools you can use to remove it:

A straightened coat hanger: This is a classic tool for dislodging clogs in the hose.
A long, flexible brush: A brush designed for cleaning vacuum hoses can be very effective.
Scissors: Use scissors to carefully cut away hair or string wrapped around the brush roll.
Pliers: Pliers can be helpful for gripping and removing stubborn debris.

Safety Tips

When unclogging your vacuum, it’s important to take some safety precautions:

Disconnect the vacuum: Always disconnect the vacuum from the power source before working on it.
Wear gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
Be careful with sharp objects: Use scissors and other sharp objects with caution to avoid injury.
Don’t force anything: If you can’t easily remove a clog, don’t force it. You could damage the vacuum.

Advanced Troubleshooting

So, you’ve cleaned the filters, unclogged the hose, and your Bissell vacuum still isn’t suctioning properly?

It might be time to consider some more complex issues.

Motor Failure

One possibility is motor failure.

The motor is the heart of your vacuum, and if it’s not working properly, it can significantly reduce suction.

Signs of motor failure include:

Weak suction: Even after cleaning the filters and unclogging the hose, suction remains weak.
Unusual noises: The motor may make strange grinding or whining noises.
Overheating: The vacuum overheats quickly, even after short periods of use.
No power: The vacuum simply won’t turn on.

If you suspect motor failure, it’s best to consult a professional repair technician.

Electrical Issues

Another possibility is electrical issues.

Problems with the wiring, switches, or other electrical components can affect the vacuum’s performance.

Signs of electrical issues include:

Intermittent power: The vacuum turns on and off sporadically.
Sparks or burning smells: These are serious warning signs that indicate an electrical problem.
No power: The vacuum won’t turn on, even after checking the power source.

Like motor failure, electrical issues should be addressed by a qualified technician.

Repair vs. Replacement

If your Bissell vacuum is significantly aged or damaged, you may need to weigh the costs of repair versus replacement.

Consider the following factors:

Age of the vacuum: If your vacuum is more than 5-7 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan.
Cost of repair: Get a quote from a repair technician to see how much it will cost to fix the problem.
Cost of replacement: Compare the cost of repair to the cost of buying a new vacuum.
Features and technology: Newer vacuums may have improved features and technology that make them more efficient and effective.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to repair or replace your vacuum is a personal one.

Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a choice.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Issues

Alright, now that we’ve covered the fixes, let’s talk about prevention.

Here are some practical maintenance tips to prolong the life of your Bissell vacuum and maintain its suction power:

Regular cleaning: Clean your vacuum regularly, including the filters, hose, brush roll, and dustbin/bag.
Empty the dustbin/bag frequently: Don’t wait until the dustbin or bag is completely full before emptying it.
Avoid vacuuming up large objects: Be careful not to vacuum up large objects that could clog the hose or damage the vacuum.
Check the belt: If your vacuum has a brush roll, check the belt regularly for wear and tear. Replace it as needed.
Store the vacuum properly: Store your vacuum in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Seasonal check-ups: Once or twice a year, give your vacuum a thorough check-up. Inspect all the components for wear and tear, clean the filters, and unclog any blockages.

Conclusion

So, there you have it!

Remember, addressing suction problems promptly is key to maintaining the functionality of your vacuum.

By following the fixes and maintenance practices outlined in this article, you can avoid future problems and ensure your vacuum remains an effective tool in your cleaning arsenal.

Happy cleaning!

Bissell Vacuum Not Suctioning? (2 Fixes Now!)