How to Measure Vacuum Cleaner Suction

Turn off the machine. Open the canister of the vacuum where the bag or dust container is stored. Check the bag or dust container. Replace the bag or empty the dust container. Put the canister back on the vacuum. If the bag or dust container is full, the vacuum will lose suction.

Plug in the vacuum and run it across a soiled area of the carpet slowly. If the soil is not removed with a few strokes of the vacuum, the power of the suction is lost in one of several areas of the vacuum.

Detach the end of the hose from the vacuum. Turn on the vacuum and place the end of the hose against the palm of your hand. The hose will grasp the palm of your hand if the hose is not blocked. If the hose is blocked, it will not grasp the palm of your hand. Gently slide the end of a broom handle down inside the hose to remove any blockages. Reattach the hose. Turn on the vacuum and attempt to vacuum a soiled area. Remove the hose and place the end of the hose against the palm of your hand. With the blockage cleared, the hose will grasp the palm of your hand. If the vacuum’s suction is low, the base of the unit should be checked.

Turn off the vacuum and unplug it from the electrical outlet. Flip the vacuum over, exposing the brush roll at the base of the unit. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to unscrew the cover of the base of the unit. Lift up the brush roll to expose the suction area from the base of the unit. The belt is attached to the brush roll and will lift out with it. Put the screwdriver in the suction area where dirt is lifted. Remove any obstructions in the suction area. Replace the belt and brush roll. Reattach the cover using the screws and a Phillips-head screwdriver. Put the vacuum in its upright position. Plug the vacuum in and vacuum a soiled area of a carpet.