Vacuum Cleaner Overheating Problem (How To Fix It)

If your vacuum cleaner is overheating, it can be a real pain to try and fix.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of the vacuum cleaner overheating problem and how to fix it. Let’s get started.

Is It Normal For a Vacuum To Get Hot? 

While it is okay for your vacuum to get slightly warm, if it is overheating, this is not normal.

If your vacuum cleaner is getting too hot, it is important to take measures to fix the problem as soon as possible.

Otherwise, you risk damaging the motor or even causing a fire.

As discussed earlier, when the unit gets too hot, it is likely an indication of a fault in the system.

So be sure to rule out all the common causes highlighted above.

What Happens When Vacuum Overheats?

The major reason a vacuum cleaner will overheat is the motor working too hard. When the vacuum cleaner is turned on, the motor will start to spin. The faster the motor spins, the more heat it produces.

If the vacuum cleaner is used for an extended period of time, or if the motor is working harder than usual (for example, if you are vacuuming up a lot of dirt), then the motor can overheat.

When the motor overheats, it can cause the vacuum cleaner to stop working altogether. In some cases, the vacuum cleaner may start to smoke or emit a burning smell.

If this happens, it is important to turn off the vacuum cleaner immediately and unplug it from the power outlet.

But why would the motor overheat in the first place?

There are various reasons why the vacuum cleaner’s motor might overheat:

• There is a fault in the motor: Perhaps the motor is damaged or there is a tear in the motor’s winding. This can cause the motor to overheat and may eventually lead to a complete breakdown.

• There is a blockage in the vacuum cleaner: If there is a blockage in the vacuum, such as a piece of cloth or hair, this can cause the motor to work harder than usual. This extra strain on the motor can cause it to overheat.

• The filters are dirty: If the filters in the vacuum cleaner are clogged with dirt, this can restrict the airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

• The vacuum cleaner is old: Over time, the bearings in the motor can wear out. This can cause friction, which will make the motor work harder and eventually overheat.

• The floor tools are cracked, damaged, or blocked: This can restrict the airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

• The dustbag is full: If the dust bag in the vacuum cleaner is full, this can restrict the airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

Can I Use My Vacuum If It Overheats?

It is not recommended to use a vacuum that overheats. If you do, you risk damaging the motor or causing a fire.

If your vacuum does overheat, be sure to take measures to fix the problem as soon as possible.

How Do You Fix A Vacuum That Overheats?

There are many things you can do to fix a vacuum that overheats. Here are some of the most common solutions:

1. Clean The Filters

One of the most common causes of an overheating vacuum is dirty filters. If your vacuum’s filters are clogged with dirt, this can restrict airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

To clean the filters, simply remove them from the vacuum and wash them with soap and water.

2. Clear Any Blockages

Another common cause of an overheating vacuum is blockage. If something is blocking the airflow, such as a piece of cloth or hair, this can cause the motor to work harder than usual.

To clear a blockage, simply remove it from the vacuum.

3. Empty The Dust Bag

Check and see if the dust bag in your vacuum is full. If it is, this can restrict airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

To empty the dust bag, simply remove it from the vacuum and dispose of the contents.

4. Replace Damaged Or Worn Parts

Over time, parts in your vacuum can become worn out or damaged. This can cause friction, which will make the motor work harder and eventually overheat.

If you think this may be the case, take your vacuum to a professional to have it serviced.

5. Check And Clean The Hose

The hose is another common place for blockages. If the hose is clogged with dirt, this can restrict airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

To clean the hose, simply remove it from the vacuum and wash it with soap and water.

6. Check The Floor Tools

The floor tools can also become blocked with dirt, hair, and other debris. This can restrict airflow and cause the motor to overheat.

Look for any signs of blockage in the brush roller or the beater bar.

7. Inspect The Vacuum Belt

You also need to check the vacuum belt to see if it is worn out or damaged. If the belt is damaged, this can cause friction and eventually lead to an overheating motor.

8. Are There Any Electrical Issues?

An electrical fault can also cause the vacuum to overheat. If you think this may be the case, take your vacuum to a professional for repairs.

How Long Does It Take For A Vacuum To Cool Down?

How long a vacuum takes to cool down depends on a few factors, such as the type of vacuum and the severity of the overheating. However, in most cases, it should only take anywhere between 20-45 minutes for the vacuum to cool down completely.

Why Is Smoke Coming Out Of My Vacuum?

If there is smoke coming out of your vacuum or if there is a burning smell, you need to immediately turn off the vacuum and unplug it from the power outlet.

This is a serious problem that indicates an electrical fault. Other possible reasons for this include:

• A damaged motor: If the motor is damaged, it can cause a short circuit. This can create sparks and smoke.
• A blockage: If something is blocking the airflow, such as a piece of cloth or hair, this can cause the motor to work harder than usual. This can create sparks and smoke.
• A faulty switch: A faulty switch can also cause a short circuit. This can create sparks and smoke.
• Faulty beater brush: A beater brush that is damaged or worn can also cause a short circuit. This can create sparks and smoke.
• Clogged brush roll: A clogged brush roll can also cause the vacuum to overheat. This can create sparks and smoke.

If you suspect an electrical fault, it is always advisable that you contact customer support immediately, especially if your vacuum is relatively new. Opening it yourself may void your warranty.

Vacuum Shut Off And Won’t Turn Back On

This could indicate a serious problem with the vacuum, such as an electrical fault.

However, sometimes it just needs to cool now so wait 20-45 minutes before trying to turn it on again. If it still won’t turn on, you might want to contact customer support.

Sometimes though, there could be an issue with a blown thermal fuse, a faulty switch, or a problem with the wiring.

You may need to get a professional to take a look at it to diagnose and fix the problem.

Final Thoughts- Vacuum Cleaner Overheating Problem

A vacuum overheating can happen for several reasons, most of which we have covered in this article.

If you think your vacuum is overheating, be sure to take measures to fix the problem as soon as possible.

We hope you found this article helpful. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Looking For Vacuum Guides?

If you’re looking for more vacuum resources, consider checking out our other posts on vacuums.

• Ilife Robot Vacuum Troubleshooting Guide
• Lefant Robot Vacuum Troubleshooting
• Vacuum is Squealing how to fix it

References: Vacuum cleaner, Maintaining Your Vacuum Cleaner