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Vacuum Cleaner Tips

Don't use the 'sprinkle on' carpet powders in your vacuum cleaner.

While not a proven fact, we've seen many expensive repairs over the years that could have been caused by using these products. Here are some even better reasons we recommend not using them:
 

Have you ever wondered why you smell the 'fragrance' when you vacuum up the powder? Here's why: The powder is so 'fine' it can blow through the bag and filter system of your machine and right back into the air, meaning you are BREATHING it - that's why you can smell it. Look at the ingredients on the back of the container, and then decide if you want to inhale those particles.

It should be noted the major cause of odors in vacuum cleaners is from bacteria growing in the bags. Vacuum cleaner bags should be changed at least once a month, and more often is better if you have pets.

Don't ever pick up drywall soot or use your vacuum cleaner to 'clean out' the firegel, gel fire (also called gel fireplace ) and gel burner (also called fire burner and fire bowl, firebowl ) .

Most of the things we mentioned about 'powders' also applies to soot and ash. We've seen a lot of expensive repairs due to people unknowingly doing this. If you really need a vacuum to do this, buy a 'junker' at a yard sale and use it for this purpose.

Don't run your vacuum cleaner on any surface that isn't completely dry.
Okay, you know about 'shock hazards'...We're talking about running the vacuum over a slightly damp carpet. Be especially careful after shampooing your carpets, and be careful around the doorways where snow and rain can be tracked into your home. Using your vacuum cleaner on these surfaces can pull small amounts of moisture into your machine, which can cause some of the parts to corrode and/or rust, meaning expensive repairs and money out of your pocket.

Do change your bag at least monthly.
We've already mentioned the odor and bacteria problems associated with bags. Think about this - How long do you keep your garbage sitting around? That bag is one of the dirtiest places in your home, full of germs and bacteria - change it often. You clean to get that stuff out of your house, so toss the bag and REALLY get it out of your house!

Also, cleaning performance is based on that bag. A clogged-up bag also causes your motor to run hotter, causing strain and reducing the motor life. The few cents you save in bags can be quickly lost on the dollars that you'll spend for motor repairs.

Change your belt about every three months.
(Flat) vacuum cleaner belts are DESIGNED to stretch and wear out. Just because the belt hasn't broken doesn't mean that it's not stretched so badly that the brushroll is no longer turning at full speed. If it's been more than three months, change your belt. Again, much of your cleaning performance is linked to this, and a little maintanence will lead to much better cleaning.


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