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Performing simple vacuum repairs at home is a great way for vacuum owners to save both time and money. One such repair is replacing the vacuum belt, which is a part that is designed to stretch, wear out, and eventually break.
Therefore, knowing the basics of vacuum belt replacement can be highly beneficial for any vacuum owner.
Luckily, replacing a vacuum belt is a straightforward process that can be accomplished without having to take the machine to a repair shop. With this knowledge, vacuum owners can save themselves the trouble and expense of professional repair services.
To begin the process of replacing the vacuum belt, the first step is to correctly order the necessary part for the repair. Many different types of vacuum belts are available on the market, so it’s essential to know which one is compatible with your vacuum model.
To learn more about the various types of vacuum belts and how to accurately order the correct belt for your vacuum, please refer to our comprehensive “How To Replace A Vacuum Belt” article.
First Step: Access The Vacuum Belt And Brush roll Area
When it comes to replacing a vacuum belt, the steps can vary depending on the specific make and model. However, all vacuum belt replacements share some common qualities that make it easy to perform this task.
Regardless of the vacuum type or model you own, this article provides generalized instructions to help you replace your vacuum belt quickly and easily.
For our demonstration, we will use a popular upright vacuum model, the Hoover U5458-900 Wind Tunnel Supreme. With some practice and familiarity with your vacuum, this repair can take less than five minutes on most vacuums.
In most cases, accessing the brush roll area requires removing the bottom plate of the vacuum cleaner, which is like the Hoover Wind Tunnel shown below.
To access the vacuum belt and brush roll area of our demonstration model, one only needs to unscrew four Phillips screws located on the bottom plate.
2nd Step: Remove The Brush Roller And The Old Belt
Before removing the old belt and brush roll from your vacuum, it is important to understand how they are arranged and connected to each other.
Take a closer look at the belt and brush roll placement in your vacuum, as it may differ depending on the model. In our example, the Hoover Wind Tunnel uses a flat vacuum belt that is held in place by its elastic tension between the motor shaft and brush roller.
To start replacing the vacuum belt, the first step is to remove the brush roll from the vacuum. You can do this by sliding it out of the belt loop. Then, with caution, detach the other end of the vacuum belt from the motor shaft.
3rd Step: Install The New Vacuum Belt On The Motor Shaft And Brush Roller
It is normal for vacuum belts to stretch over time, so don’t be alarmed if the old belt appears much bigger than the new one. However, it is still important to ensure that you have the correct replacement belt for your vacuum.
Different types of belts have varying degrees of elasticity, with round and flat belts typically stretching more than geared and v-belts.
To install the new belt, slide it onto the motor shaft and then thread the brush roll through the other end of the belt.
4rth Step: Install The Brush Roller With The Belt Correctly Positioned On It
When replacing the belt for vacuums that utilize round and flat belts, a bit of force may be required to position the brush roll with the new unstretched belt.
In the case of our demo vacuum, the brush roll has a notch on the side opposite the belt that aligns with the vacuum.
Once that side is installed, pulling the belt side of the roller will easily snap it into place (beware of fingers). It’s more convenient to perform this task with the vacuum lying on the ground while standing over it, as a well-placed foot can provide the necessary counterweight.
Fifth Step: Reassemble The Vacuum
Congratulations, you have successfully replaced your vacuum belt! With the new belt in place, your vacuum should be functioning much better.
The lifespan of the new vacuum agitator belt depends on the type of belt used, but it should last for months or even years before needing to be replaced again.
Regular maintenance of your vacuum, including checking the belt for wear and tear, can help prolong the lifespan of the belt and keep your vacuum running smoothly.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, replacing a vacuum belt is a quick and easy repair that can extend the life of your vacuum and keep it operating at peak performance. While the specific steps may vary depending on the vacuum model, the general process remains the same.
Remember to take a good look at how the old belt and brush roll are arranged before removing them, and make sure you have the correct replacement part.
With a little muscle, you can install the new belt and brush roll, and get back to vacuuming in no time. So don’t hesitate to try this DIY repair yourself, and enjoy your newly refreshed vacuum.
