Hey there, fellow clean-freaks!
Ever found yourself frustrated with a vacuum that just doesn’t suck like it used to?
Before you throw in the towel (or should I say, the vacuum cleaner), let’s dive into the mystery of malfunctioning motors.
In this quick guide, we’ll explore telltale signs that your vacuum’s motor might be on the fritz.
Stay tuned to revive your cleaning arsenal!
How Do I Know If My Vacuum Motor Is Bad?
1. Unusual Burning Smell
One of the most noticeable indicators that your vacuum motor is not running is a burning smell.
It is commonly a result of over heated windings or old motor brushes.
Switch the vacuum immediately when you detect this smell.
It can be damaged permanently or blow the thermal fuse by operating it longer.
A short can inhibit a complete motor failure.
2. Rough or Scary Grinding Noises.
A good motor has a smooth humming run.
When the grinding or rattling sounds begin, then something in the motor housing is not moving properly anymore.
Bearing can be attached or debris can be caught around the fan.
Sudden motor seizure may come in ignoring these sounds, therefore, it is better to stop and check.
3. Poor Suction when Cleaning the Filters.
When the canister is drained, the filter is washed, the hose is cleared and the suction is still weak, then it is possible the motor is not producing sufficient airflow.
As motors age, they lose power.
This slow decline is usually not realized until it is extreme.
It is among the most widespread initial symptoms of motor impairment.
4. Frequent Overheating
A vacuum that clogs regularly or becomes hot soon can have a strained motor.
Overheating is normally an indication that the motor is overworking.
This may be caused by blockages however, when the airway is clear, the motor windings or bearings might be worn out and might not be able to perform normally.
5. Fluctuating Power or Shaky Power
When the vacuum switch on and off when using it or requires multiple attempts to start; then the motor might be malfunctioning.
Electrical contact may be uneven due to worn brushes or a damaged commutator.
These problems get more and more serious over time, and thus, it is possible to save the rest of the machine early.
6. Excessive Vibrations
A vibratory vacuum is a good indicator of an imbalance within the motor.
This may occur when the motor fan is destroyed or the shaft is loosened.
Shaking with a lot of force does not simply feel good but also causes additional stress to the whole unit.
The vibrations may lead to internal misalignment or further breakage when not addressed.
7. Smouldering or Smouldering Debris in the Exhaust
In case the vacuum ruptures dark particles or a light haze caused by the exhaust, the internal parts of the motor can be in bad shape.
Motor brushes may release carbon dust into the airflow path.
Whereas a small amount is normal, heavy output indicates a motor that is almost near the end of its life.
8. A Sharp Drop in Airflow
Sudden loss of airflow with filters and hoses clear, is usually associated with a broken fan or a malfunctioning motor.
As the motor strength reduces it is not able to sustain the pressure to propel air effectively.
This fall normally precedes the stalling or burning out of the motor.
9. Sparks visible in the inside of the motor housing.
Older motors may have some normal small internal sparking.
However, when you notice frequent and bright sparks through the vents, brushes or commutator of the motor can be in poor condition.
This raises heat, load and possibility of complete electrical failure.
It is one of the good indicators that it might require replacement.
10. Motor Fails Under Light Load
When the vacuum does not have any attachments, and yet when you begin cleaning the floors or carpets, the vacuum stops, then the motor is no longer capable of normal resistance.
A healthy motor is one which changes suction readily.
In the case of failure during light load, the internal components are most probably weak enough to keep supplying power.
FAQs
1. Should a vacuum motor be replaced?
In the case of a relatively new and well maintained vacuum, it is not expensive to replace the motor.
The cost of repair of older models might be unwarranted.
2. Will I be able to fix a vacuum motor myself?
Simple cleaning process is easy, but internal motor repairs are a task of a technician since they are connected with electric hazards.
3. What is the average life of a vacuum motor?
Motors have a life cycle of three to seven years, which is based on the use, maintenance, and the quality of the models.
The Wind-Up
Being aware of the symptoms of a faulty vacuum motor will enable you to take action before the cost of repair is high.
When your vacuum exhibits a number of these symptoms, think of servicing or changing the motor.
To get this and other home care tips, visit other related posts on our blog.
