What is the best way to clean carpeted stairs?
A TurboTool, featured on a number of models of Vax vacuum cleaner, is an excellent accessory for this purpose. These air-driven handtools contain a spinning brush which is specifically designed to clean deep in the pile of the carpet, so they are great at removing pet hair. Machines without a TurboTool will usually have a dusting brush and crevice tool that can also be used for stair cleaning. Simply attach them to the accessory hose of your machine.
What should the brushbar height adjustment be set at?
On Vax vacuum cleaners brushbar height settings correspond to carpet height with the lowest setting being best for use on low pile carpet and the highest setting best for a thick plush pile carpet. Based on the type of carpet you are vacuuming, pick a setting which corresponds. If the cleaner is difficult to push with that setting, try the next highest setting. The highest setting should always be used, or the brushbar turned off, when vacuuming lino.
Why will my cleaner not pick up?
There are several possible reasons for this:-
1) Brushbar
Check to see if the brushbar is rotating. There may be obstructions which are preventing this from operating correctly.
2) Belt
Check to make sure that the belt is not worn or broken. Vax user manuals almost always cover the procedure for checking and replacing the belt with diagrams and descriptions. This is a straightforward task and can normally be completed within a few minutes.
3) Blockages
Check that the air passage from the base of the cleaner through to the dirt container to see if there are any blockages that may be obstructing the suction. Blockages are likely to occur in the hose, therefore in some cases it may be necessary to use an implement such as a broomhandle to remove blockages.
4) Dirt Container
Check the dirt container to see if it is full and empty if necessary.
5) Filters
Check all filters on your machine and either clean or replace with new filters.
Why does my vacuum cleaner cut out?
Vacuum cleaners generally cut out due to the thermal cut out being activated, as a result of the motor becoming extremely hot due to reduced airflow. This is most commonly as a result of the filter being blocked, or there being an obstruction within the hose.
Once the thermal cut out is engaged it may take between 1-2 hours for the machine to operate again. Turn off your machine, and unplug from the mains supply and leave the machine to cool down.