Are You Using Your Vacuum Properly?

You are probably thinking to yourself, it’s a vacuum cleaner, how hard could it be to use? You might be surprised to find out that using a vacuum cleaner properly is a bit trickier than you might think. To get the most of your vacuum cleaner, here are some tips for when you need to pull it out and get to working on those floors.

Take Your Time

Most people want to pull out the vacuum, run it quickly over the floor and be done. The truth is that, by going fast, you might actually be missing a lot of the dust and dirt that can work its way down deep into your carpeting. Suction isn’t an instantaneous thing and needs some time to build up to properly pull the debris off your carpet. Take your time and move the vacuum cleaner slowly along the floor. This will ensure that you are pulling up that deep down dirt and not just limiting your cleaning efforts to surface debris.

Pull Out That Retractable Cord

If you have a cleaner that has an automatic retractable cord you want to pull it all out before you start running your vacuum. The coiled up cord can build up heat and actually affect the operation of your cleaner. You can also do damage to the cord with that heat, making it brittle or more prone to cracking and breaking. Make sure to pull the cord all the way out so that your unit can fully dissipate the heat that the mechanisms inside are putting out.

Use the Proper Tools

Most vacuums come with a wide variety of brushes and attachments. Many people just ignore them all, or ignore all but one. Those tools are there for a reason and each have specific purposes and jobs. Choosing the right attachment for the job can save you time and effort as you go.

Use the Right Brush Setting

Your unit probably also has several different brush heights as well as a setting to turn the brushes off completely. The brush rotates to pull apart the carpet fibers and for maximum effect. If you have a very delicate carpet, this process can actually damage it or pull the fibers free. Make sure to stop brush rotation if you are concerned about carpet damage.

Also remember to turn the brush off when you are working on hardwood floors or near the edges of area rugs. Brushes can damage hardwood and can also suck the edges of an area rug up into the hose or bottom of the vacuum, causing damage to the rug and the unit itself.

Check the Dust Bag

You always want to make sure you have room in your bag for new additions before you begin. If you have a bagless vacuum, make sure to empty your container out thoroughly before getting down and dirty.

If you are in the market for a new vacuum in Vancouver, or need to have yours repaired, contact us at Advantage Vacuums today!