Electrical Problems with a Vacuum Cleaner

Power Cord

• The power cord is the inlet of electricity for a vacuum, as electricity travels from the wall socket through the cord to the vacuum's motor. If there is a problem with the power cord, the vacuum will not perform properly. If the cord shows visible signs of damage -- such as wear, torn casing or loose prongs -- it may need to be replaced. Replacement cords are available in stores specializing in vacuum cleaners or may be ordered directly from your vacuum's manufacturer. Since all vacuum cleaners are different, always follow the instructions outlined in your vacuum cleaner's owner's manual for the safest and most effective cord replacement. When in doubt about replacing your own vacuum cord, take it to a vacuum repair specialist for help.

Power Switch

• When your vacuum cleaner's power switch is faulty, the appliance does not receive power on command. Locate the internal switch, if possible, by disassembling the vacuum cleaner and looking inside of the casing near the area where you see the external power switch. Purchase a plug with alligator clips on one side and prongs on the other. Connect the alligator clips to the internal switch and plug the pronged side into a power outlet. If the vacuum powers on, the switch is the problem and needs replacing. Follow your owner's manual instructions for replacing the switch, or take your vacuum to a repair specialist for assistance.

Motor

• The vacuum cleaner's motor receives electricity and uses it to provide suction, turn brushes and circulate air. Electrical problems with a motor are varied and usually difficult to repair. Test your vacuum cleaner's motor by attaching it to a power cord with alligator clips on one end. Connect the alligator clips to the vacuum motor leads and plug the cord in. If you have replaced the power switch and cord, yet this test fails to start your vacuum's motor, the motor is most likely irreparable. Take the vacuum to a repair specialist if you wish, but your best bet in this situation is probably to purchase a new vacuum.

Nozzle

• Nozzle problems are most often associated with canister vacuums. These vacuums use an attachment on the end of a long hose to pick up dirt and debris. If you check the hose and it is in good working order, attach a cord with alligator clips to the the male wire on the canister and plug that cord into the wall. If the vacuum runs during this test, the problem is an electrical short. Test the female receptacle that the male wire plugs into using an electric test light from a hardware store. If the light does not power on when attached to the female receptacle and plugged into the wall, the problem is in that receptacle and it must be replaced. Take the vacuum to a repair specialist for necessary repairs or to do the diagnostic testing, if you feel uneasy about doing it yourself.