How to Fix the Suction on Dyson

Posted by paul walker on February 25th, 2023

Dyson makes high-end vacuums that are known for their powerful performance and impressive lifespan. However, even these machines can have issues from time to time.

How to fix the suction on Dyson? One of the most common reasons for a Dyson vacuum to lose suction is a filter that is clogged with dust and dirt. To fix this, you will need to clean it thoroughly.

1. Check the filter

The filter on your Dyson vacuum cleaner helps to capture and contain tiny dust particles, which can build up over time. This can reduce the airflow through your machine and cause it to lose suction power.

Thankfully, cleaning your Dyson filter is pretty easy, as long as you remember to only use cold water. This way, you can prevent soap and other detergents from damaging your machine.

To start, unplug your Dyson and locate the filter, which is usually purple in colour. It's normally situated underneath or behind the cyclone assembly on a Dyson V10.

Then, remove the filter by twisting it anti-clockwise until it comes off easily. Once it's removed, gently tap it over a bin or garbage can to remove any loose dirt and debris.

2. Check the hose

If your Dyson is not picking up dirt as it should, the hose may be clogged. The hose is connected to the vacuum's nozzle and attachments, so any blockages will affect the suction of the machine.

To check for blockages, remove the wand and any attachments. Then, look down the main hose attached to the vacuum.

When you're ready to change the hose, unplug the machine and use a screwdriver to release the black tabs on each end of the hose. Then, insert the screwdriver into one of the tabs and push it in hard, rotating until it clicks out.

Next, submerge the hose's end in hot water, up to and including the tabs. This softens the plastic and makes it easier to work with. After a few minutes, put the hose back on the vacuum and check for blockages. If necessary, remove the hose from the vacuum and clean it with a broom or other tool.

3. Check the brush bar

If the suction isn’t working properly on your Dyson vacuum, it may be because of a problem with the brush bar. The brush bar is responsible for agitating dirt on floors and carpets before allowing it to settle in the vacuum bin.

The brush bar is powered by a motor that transfers its power through a transmission rod that the brush bar mounts onto. However, the transmission rod can become clogged with hair and fur, making it hard for the brush bar to spin properly.

This can also happen if the electrical connectors between the cleaning head and the transmission rod become clogged with dirt and dust. As a result, less power is sent to the cleaning head. This can lead to a Dyson brush bar that doesn’t spin at all or turns intermittently.

4. Check the motor

If you own a Dyson vacuum, there is a good chance that the suction isn't working properly. Typically, this problem is caused by a blockage that prevents airflow. This can be anything from a clogged dust bin to an obstruction in the vacuum's powerhead, hose, and brush bar.

In such cases, the vacuum will pulsate its suction motor to protect itself. However, this can be a sign that the suction motor is overheating.

As a result, it may need to be replaced. Depending on the model of your Dyson, you can purchase a replacement suction motor separately or as part of a new Main Body unit.

To replace the suction motor on your Dyson, you will need to open up the vacuum and remove the motor casing. This can be a little tricky and it may require a little force, but you should be able to fit the new motor in place and secure it.