What Causes a Vacuum to Get Loud?

Stuck Object

• When moving the vacuum cleaner over one type of surface, such as a carpet, and then to a different type, such as tile, you’ll typically notice a change in the sound, and you might need to readjust the range, moving it from a medium or high setting to a lower one. Sucking up a larger, hard object can cause a loud rattling sound, such as one caused by a paper clip. In this case, turn the vacuum off, and see if the object falls from the vacuum. Should the vacuum get a hold of a sock or the dust ruffle from your bed, it will typically send the vacuum howling while the object jams the appliance. Turn the appliance off immediately, and gently dislodge the object.

Dirty Motor

• A dirty vacuum motor can be the cause of the loud sound, as can a full vacuum bag or dirty filter. Unplug your vacuum, and clean it out before using it more. Cleaning the vacuum might involve changing the vacuum bag, emptying a debris receptacle or cleaning or replacing a filter.

Drive Belt

• A common culprit is a drive belt malfunction. Vacuum drive belts periodically wear out and break. Not only can this problem make the vacuum sound differently, but the vacuum will not be able to pick up dirt with a broken belt. Look for replacement belts at hardware stores, discount department stores and vacuum shops. Sometimes the belt doesn’t need replacing; it simply needs repositioning. This might happen after you’ve removed a large, jammed item from the vacuum, such as a sock.

Fan Issues

• Check the vacuum fan, which might be broken or loose. Tighten the connection to the motor, if necessary. Look for dents, warping or other possible damage. If the fan blade is broken, it needs to be replaced. Since vacuum designs vary, refer to your vacuum cleaner’s user manual, and see if it includes a troubleshooting list. This is a list of possible problems, with cause and solution suggestions, specific to your model.