Purpose of the Vent on a Vacuum Cleaner Shaft

Purpose

• The vent on the shaft allows enough air to flow to cool the motor while the vacuum is in use. The vent is also part of the vacuum’s system that moves air, creating the suction for the vacuum to pick up dirt. The motor shaft and vent are encased in the canister and the canister is sealed to create suction. If the canister leaks or is not installed properly, the vent cannot create enough suction.

Filter

• A filter covers the motor shaft vent. The filter on the vent protects the motor from dust and debris, but allows air to flow through. The suction of the vacuum attracts dust and debris, even outside the vacuum bag and into the canister.

Filter Changing

• Vacuum manufacturers require cleaning or replacing the motor shaft's filter routinely. The frequency of replacing the motor shaft filter depends on how often the vacuum is used. Check the filter and shake off dust when changing the vacuum bag or emptying the debris cup. If the filter is soiled, follow the vacuum manufacturer’s instructions to wash or replace it. The vacuum still works if the filter isn’t changed. However, changing the filter shortens the life and efficiency of the vacuum by allowing dust and debris to collect in the motor.

Additional Maintenance

• Vacuum cleaners have at least two vents -- a motor shaft vent and an exhaust vent. Like the shaft vent, the exhaust vent should be cleaned or replaced routinely. To ensure the motor shaft vent protects the motor, use a lightly dampened rag to wipe the inside and outside of the canister to remove dust and debris each time the vacuum bag is changed. Allow it to dry before reassembling the vacuum.