There’s no straight answer for the question “How Long do Vacuum Cleaners Last?” A vacuum can last for days or decades depending on many factors. Today, we embark on a journey to give you an insight into the expected life of a vacuum cleaner.
Regardless of what you’ve heard, it all boils down to how you use and take care of this important (and sometimes pricey) property. With good maintenance and gentle use, a good vacuum should last anywhere between 2 to 10 years.
Do not be surprised if you find a vacuum older than 10 years still working fine. All you have to do is use the vacuum for its intended purpose and replace worn-out parts such as filters, belts, and beater bars on time.
All factors considered, the average lifespan of a vacuum is 8 years.
A Few Pointers That Your Vacuum Cleaner will Last Long
Even though it’s hard to determine exactly how long a vacuum will last, you can quickly tell if you should expect a long lifespan. By looking at these few parameters, you can confidently swipe that card at a shop or check out at the online vendor’s store.
a) Build
What is the vacuum made of? If the vacuum is made of strong materials such as steel, high-impact plastic, or polycarbonates, you can be sure it will last long. However, if it’s made of flimsy plastic and other weak material, do not get your hopes up.
b) Warranty
The length and coverage of the warranty should tell you how confident a manufacturer is about the durability of their product. For example, the best Shark vacuums come with 5-year warranties. This means that the manufacturer believes that for 5 years, you will not need to buy a replacement.
So, ensure that you know how long the warranty is. If a vacuum lacks or has a very short warranty, you better look elsewhere. Also, some manufacturers are so confident about the build and performance of their vacuums that they offer money-back guarantees.
If such an option is available to you, buy the vacuum, test it and see how strong it is. In case you are not satisfied, return the vacuum and get a better one.
c) Price
They say cheap is expensive. While this may sound cliché, it is very true when it comes to vacuum cleaners. While you may find a few hidden gems that cost less than 50 bucks, cheap vacuums can disappoint you.
So, I strongly advise that you save up for a mid-range to expensive vacuum and you won’t regret it. A high price is an indicator that a lot of resources have gone into research and buying of strong material to make the vacuum.
d) Buyer reviews
Before you settle on a particular vacuum, take some time to read what current owners are saying. You’ll be surprised to find someone saying they have used one vacuum cleaner for over 10 years.
This means that you can buy the same vacuum (if it’s still in production). You can also buy a different vacuum from the same manufacturer. If people are saying that your vacuum of choice gives them problems early into their ownership journey, just run!
e) Brand
With all due respect to the up-and-coming vacuum cleaner brands, some names are synonymous with vacuuming. Brands such as Dyson, Shark, Hoover, Miele, Riccar, Simplicity, Dirt Devil, and Bissell have been around for ages.
Some have been there for decades while others such as Bissell have clocked over a century. So, you should be confident investing in any of the best vacuum cleaner brands because they have been tried and tested. Also, they wouldn’t want to spoil their good name by making rickety vacuum cleaners.
How to Ensure that Your Vacuum Lasts Long
Assuming you buy a vacuum that meets the above criteria, you must do your part to ensure that it stays with you for long. That’s the only way to get value for your money.
Follow the user manual during set up
When you receive your shipment or when you arrive at home from the vacuum shop, the first thing is assembly. To avoid damaging any parts or putting them in harm’s way, ensure that you stick to the user guide.
Alternatively, you can go to YouTube and follow videos such as the one below on how to assemble that particular model. Most manufacturers have such video tutorials, but you can also find others done by vacuum cleaner reviewers.
Once you put the vacuum together properly, you are on your way to enjoying its service for a long time.
Always use the right attachment
When it comes to the floor, most vacuums come with only one floor attachment/nozzle. However, the manufacturer will specify whether it is for bare floors, carpet, or both. Also, some vacuums have height adjustment and you should again check the user manual to know which height is suitable for which type of carpet.
On the other hand, if the vacuum has two floor attachments, use each one on its intended flooring type. The same applies to accessories such as crevice tools and brushes. If used correctly, you will not have to buy replacements at all.
What are you picking up?
Regular vacuums pick up all manner of dirt – dust, pollen, debris, and pet hair. However, some debris may be too big for your vacuum and may cause damage, blockage, or clogging of parts such as hoses and filters.
Also, if yours is not a wet/dry vacuum, avoid vacuuming wet floors. This will cause a lot of damage to the floor nozzle, brushroll, or even the motor. Besides, it may lead to the growth of microorganisms inside the vacuum and this may be a health hazard.
If you want to pick up water and large debris, look for the best shop vac and add it to your cleaning tool set.
Empty the dust cup on time
If you wait till the dirt fills up the canister completely, you are in danger of losing your vacuum. If it’s too full, the motor tends to overwork, the reason being that there is no room for air to pass as required. Also, leaving dirt inside the vacuum for too long can result in the production of odors.
My advice is that you should empty the dust cup when it’s half full. In the worst-case scenario, vacuum until the dirt reaches the ‘Max’ line drawn or engraved on the dust cup.
Filter maintenance
If your vacuum has washable filters, always clean them whenever you notice a reduction in suction. For most filters, you just need to shake off the dirt gently then wash under running cool water (without soap). Then, leave the filters to air-dry for about 24 hours. However, always check the user manual for specific instructions.
Regardless of whether the filters are washable or not, replace them as per the manufacturer’s estimated lifespan. However, you may need to do that sooner if you use the vacuum heavily.
Brushroll (beater bar) maintenance
Just like filters, brushrolls need maintenance. Regularly remove and check if there is some debris or hair stuck on the brushroll. If the brushroll is not dirty, just remove the debris or pet hair and replace it. Specific instructions on how to do that are on your user manual or the manufacturer’s website.
If the brushroll is full of dirt, wash it under running water just like the filters. Then, leave it to air-dry for about 24 to 48 hours. You may fasten the process by placing it near a fan. If the brushroll window is removable, wash it too. Also, wipe the brushroll chamber to remove any dirt.
Once the brushroll is completely dry, put it back on the floor nozzle and continue vacuuming.
Storage
After you finish vacuuming or cleaning the vacuum, don’t just throw it in a corner. Look for somewhere safe to store it, away from pets and kids. Even adults can push over the vacuum and damage it. So, always put the vacuum in the right place till the next use.
You may be lucky to buy one that has a wall mount – make use of it and you will have one less thing to worry about.
Repairs
While some repairs and replacement tasks can be done as DIY projects, look for a professional to handle more complicated repairs. Also, if the product is still under warranty make use of it instead of spending money that can help elsewhere.
Conclusion
Vacuums last for 8 years on average. However, how long your vacuum lasts depends on how well you use and maintain it. So, whether you buy one from a big brand such as Dyson or get a vacuum bearing an unknown name – its destiny is in your hands, literally.
You must always check for damage and replace any worn-out part on time. Also, seek professional assistance for repairs or make use of the manufacturer’s warranty. Lastly, always avoid using filters beyond the recommended duration and empty the dirt canister before it becomes too full.