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When to change your Vacuum Cleaner Drive Belt?

If your vacuum cleaner is losing suction and there is no clear obstruction in the hose or blocking the agitator, then it is possible that the drive belt has snapped or worn out. The drive belt connects the motor to the agitator brush, which rotates and is used to work dirt and dust out of the carpet to be sucked up by the vacuum. If the agitator is no longer rotating when the vacuum is working, then it is likely that there is a problem with the belt.

Vacuum Belts

Because the belt is spinning constantly while the vacuum is being used, an old belt can become frayed and eventually snap. To keep a vacuum running efficiently and effectively, the drive belt will generally need to be replaced every six months to a year, depending on how often the vacuum is used, and the quality of the belt.

It is usually easy and inexpensive to replace a drive belt, but you need to make sure you get the right belt for your vacuum cleaner model.


How to remove and clean a Vacuum Cleaner Drive Belt

The exact steps required to change a drive belt will depend on the specific model of vacuum cleaner you have, but the following are tips that will apply to the majority of vacuum cleaner models:

Using an appropriate screwdriver, remove the screws holding the bottom plate onto the vacuum's head, and carefully remove the plate.

Slowly remove the agitator brush by lifting the ends out of their slots. If it has not completely snapped the belt will still be wrapped around one end of it. Remove this end of the belt from the brush and the other end from around the motor drive shaft

Before installing the new belt, make sure that there is no debris wrapped around the agitator brush; often thread or hair can get caught around it and prevent the brush from rotating, which will in turn cause the belt to wear out or break earlier than it normally would. If there is anything wrapped around the brush, pull or cut it off before replacing.

To install the new drive belt, slide one end around the agitator brush and the other over the motor drive shaft. Then return the agitator brush to its position; you may have to stretch the belt slightly in order to fit the brush back properly into place. Replace the bottom plate and screw back on.


Finding the right Drive Belt for your Vacuum Cleaner

Vacuum Cleaner

When it comes to buying a new drive belt for your vacuum cleaner, there are a few options to consider before you purchase. The first is whether to opt for a genuine replacement or a pattern belt.

Genuine Replacement Vacuum Drive Belts

Genuine vacuum cleaner drive belts are made by the original manufacturer of the vacuum cleaner and are designed to be 'like for like' replacements, specifically developed for your model of vacuum.

Pattern Replacement Vacuum Drive Belts

Our pattern vacuum cleaner drive belts are manufactured to the highest standards to provide comparable quality to the genuine alternative. They are specifically designed to offer fantastic value for money.

You also need to make sure that the vacuum drive belt is suitable for your model of vacuum cleaner. Our quick finder is the easiest way to find the right vacuum belt for you. Simply enter the make of your vacuum cleaner and the model number, which is usually printed on the casing, base or rear of the vacuum. This will show all belts that are compatible with your cleaner.


Don't just replace the Belt…

Replacing the vacuum belt is the perfect opportunity to give the vacuum cleaner a quick check over and take care of any essential maintenance.

Replace the vacuum bag

Make sure that the vacuum bag is checked regularly and is changed once it becomes around ¾ full, as an overly-full bag will reduce the air flow in the vacuum and restrict suction power. Some vacuum cleaners have an indicator light which will let you know when it's time to change the bag. Changing a vacuum bag before it's full is better for the vacuum cleaner and can help extend its lifespan.

Clean or replace the filter

Make sure all the filters on your vacuum cleaner are removed and cleaned regularly otherwise they can become clogged which results in the vacuum cleaner losing suction. Over time, cleaning may no longer be sufficient and the filters will need to be replaced.

Check the agitator brush

The agitator brush is used to work the dirt and debris out of the carpets. Over time bits of thread and hair can become tangled around the agitator and the brush can become clogged, resulting in the vacuum losing suction power. You may be able to carefully remove the debris to restore the brush; otherwise it will need replacing.