If it is an upright vacuum, check your dirt receptacle or bag. You may need to change the bag or empty the dirt cup. Your suction pathways could be clogged also, and you may need to clear them. If your vacuum has removable filters, you may need to change them or wash them out. If you have your instruction manual, it may tell you EXACTLY how to do this for your particular make/model of vacuum. Clearing the suction pathways can be a messy job, so spread some old newspaper or a trash bag on the floor. You can clear them with a wire coat hanger. Twist the hook to separate the hanger,straighten the hanger,then bend part of the end into a small loop.Push the loop GENTLY into the suction path until you meet resistance, and pull it back out. You may have to do this several times to get the gunk out if it's clogged. If you can detatch a hose, take the hose off and run the loop thru the hose,too. Changing the bags or filter isn't very difficult, just make sure you have the right bag/filter for your make/model. You can usually find the type of bag/filter printed on the bag/filter itself, or you can take it to the store with you. If your vac has washable filters, you can rinse them with warm water in your kitchen sink, and blot them with a towel. Let the filter(s) dry for a while before you put them back in. I live with 4 dogs, so I learned how to take my vacuum apart VERY quickly to clean it out. Just make sure your vacuum is UNPLUGGED before you attempt to do anything to it!!
Patti Willett, February 2008
