Replacing a broken vacuum belt is an easy fix that can be done in minutes. With some basic tools and a new belt, you can have your vacuum running like new again. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.
Necessary Materials & Tools
Before getting started, make sure you have all of the necessary materials:
- New vacuum belt (make sure it’s the correct size for your model)
- Screwdriver
- Scissors
- Flashlight (optional but helpful)
You’ll also need some basic tools:
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Gloves (optional)
Also Read: How to Repair a Vacuum Cleaner: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Unplug the Vacuum & Gather Tools
The first step is to unplug your vacuum cleaner before doing any work on it. Make sure it’s powered completely off.
Then, gather all of the tools and new belt you’ll need and set them aside in your workspace. Having everything easily accessible will make the job much smoother.
Step 2: Remove Outer Housing
Most vacuums have an outer plastic housing that needs to be removed first to access the belt area.
Locating Screws
Carefully turn your vacuum over and scan the perimeter of the bottom plastic plate for any visible screws. Use your flashlight to double check you locate all screws.
Common screw locations:
- Along the edges
- Corners
- Some models have screws hidden underpads
Removing Screws
Once located, use your Phillips or flathead screwdriver to remove all screws and set them aside in a safe place. Be extremely careful not to strip the heads.
With the screws removed, the outer housing should easily detach. Carefully pry it loose with your flathead screwdriver if needed.
Step 3: Locate Motor & Brushroll
Now the internal components will be exposed. Locate the motor and brush roll.
The motor is the electrical component that powers the suction. It will have a belt wrapped around the drive shaft.
The brush roll has bristles and spins to agitate carpet and debris. This is also wrapped on the other side of the belt.
Step 4: Remove Old Belt
With the motor and brush roll located, you can now remove the old, broken belt.
Releasing Tension
First, release the tension on the belt by carefully maneuvering the brush roll to create slack.
On some models, you may need to detach a tension spring to loosen the belt. Refer to your specific vacuum’s manual if needed.
Sliding Belt Off
Once loosened, slowly slide, wiggle and finagle the belt up and over the brush roll. Take care not to damage any components like wires or switches.
If needed, use your needle nose pliers to get a grip on the belt. Be extremely careful though to not puncture or tear the belt.
With the old belt removed, inspect it closely and look for any obvious damage like cracks or tears which confirms why it stopped working.
Cleaning Components
While you have full access, wipe down all the internal parts with a dry cloth to remove any built-up hair, dirt and debris. Proper cleaning will allow your new belt to last longer.
Step 5: Install New Replacement Belt
The hard part is over, now just reverse the steps to install a fresh, new belt.
Route Around Components
Start by looping your new belt around the motor drive shaft. Make sure it’s properly aligned and the grooves catch.
Then route the other side around the brushroll, being extremely careful not to get the belt pinched or folded on any wires or components.
Slowly spin the brushroll by hand to double-check check everything is aligned and moving smoothly before tensioning the belt.
Reattach Tension
Next, reattach any tension springs that were detached earlier.
Carefully maneuver the brush roll back into its locked position against the floor plate to re-create tension on the belt. Spin it by hand to confirm adequate grip and tension.
Confirm Operation
Before sealing up the housing, quickly plug in the vacuum without the outer housing attached. Turn it on for 10 seconds to verify proper operation.
Watch that the brush roll spins normally. Also, check the belt stays centered without slipping or getting caught.
If all looks good after your test, continue to the final step of reassembling the housing.
Step 6: Reattach Outer Housing
With the new belt installed successfully, you’re almost finished. All that remains is carefully replacing the outer protective housing.
Inspect & Clean Housing
Give the plastic housing a quick once-over to remove any debris that could get trapped or pinched. Wipe with a dry cloth.
Also, inspect closely for any cracks or damage. Having a damaged outer cover can make the vacuum susceptible to more issues down the road.
Replace Screws
Line up the housing and firmly press back into place. The plastic tabs should snap into their slots.
Then replace all the original screws you removed in Step 2 using your Phillips or flathead screwdriver. Do not over tighten.
Power On & Test Suction
Your belt replacement is complete! Pat yourself on the back.
Plug the vacuum back in and turn it on to max power. Pass the vacuum head slowly over the carpet or bare floor and verify strong, consistent suction.
If the suction seems weak, immediately turn off the vacuum. Double-check that no debris is blocking the floor head or hose and that the housing is firmly snapped in place.
Final Validation
Make one final visual inspection of your work:
- Housing securely attached
- No loose wires caught
- Brush roll spins normally
- The belt stays centered on the components
If everything checks out, enjoy your revived vacuum! No more broken belts interrupting your cleaning.
Read More: How to Replace a Vacuum Cleaner Belt
Preventative Maintenance
Replacing a failed vacuum belt is just part of the proper maintenance all vacuums need. Here are some other tips to keep your machine in peak condition:
Clean Filters & Dust Bin
Dirty filters and clogged dust bins are the #1 source of poor vacuum performance and belts wearing prematurely.
Wash filters monthly under warm water until water runs clear. Allow 24 hours minimum to completely air dry before reinstalling.
Also, empty the dustbin before it’s overly full. Never let debris completely pack down in the bin.
Inspect & Replace Belts
Even high-quality vacuum belts degrade over time with normal use. Here are some general belt replacement guidelines:
- Standard belts = Every 12 months
- Heavy use = Every 6 months
- Signs of wear = Replace immediately
Mark your calendar and stay proactive about belt maintenance.
Don’t Overload Capacity
Be careful not to overload your vacuum’s cleaning capacity. Severe overloading can damage the belt and motor.
If debris becomes packed around the brush roll or crammed in the hose, immediately turn off the machine. Carefully clear the jam before continuing.
Have Spare Belts
Having 1-2 spare new belts on hand allows you to quickly fix broken belts when needed. Stock up so you’re never without this essential part.
Properly caring for your vacuum will maximize performance and minimize unexpected breakdowns. Implementing these basic maintenance tips takes little effort but pays big dividends over your machine’s lifetime.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While replacing the belt is usually straightforward, some issues can occasionally come up. Here’s how to troubleshoot problems if your vacuum has problems after the repair:
Vacuum Not Picking Up
First, confirm the floor roller spins when powered on. If not spinning:
- Verify new belt is installed correctly
- Check for jammed debris
- Inspect belt condition and reinstall if damaged
- Try adjusting the belt tension
Also, inspect the suction path for clogs:
- Clean dust bin
- Remove debris from hoses/pipes
- Clean or replace filters
Belt Slipping Off
If the new belt keeps slipping or falling off, try these fixes:
- Adjust the tension spring for a tighter fit
- Confirm the correct belt size
- Check components for debris & clean
- Inspect brush roll bearing damage
Belt Screeching Noise
High-pitched squealing or screeching noises usually indicate an issue:
- Apply lubricant to brush roller ends
- Adjust belt tension
- Clear debris from the belt path
- Replace damaged or defective belt
Carefully diagnose and troubleshoot any performance issues that arise related to the belt replacement. With some targeted debugging, you can get your vacuum running like normal again.
Conclusion
Replacing a broken vacuum belt is an inexpensive and easy DIY fix that anyone can accomplish in about 15-20 minutes.
The key steps are:
- Disassemble outer housing
- Locate and remove old belt
- Install new replacement belt
- Reattach housing and test performance
Additionally, following proper maintenance procedures for belts, filters and dust bins will maximize your vacuum’s cleaning performance and lifespan.
Implementing this straightforward belt replacement process allows you to avoid the hassle and cost of professional repairs. Keep your home clean and your hard-earned money in your wallet.
Hopefully this comprehensive walkthrough gave you the complete information you need to successfully swap out a failed belt. You’ve got this! Now just grab your tools, new belt and get busy reviving your vacuum.