Many cleaning business owners have had an employee at one time or another call to say their vacuum cleaner doesn't work, or it doesn't have any suction. And most of those cleaning business owners found that there's nothing wrong with the vacuum other than the fact that the bag is as hard as a rock! When the bag is this full, it affects the motor because there isn't enough room for air to flow, which is what keeps the motor from overheating.

One of the easiest things you can do to keep your vacuum cleaners running efficiently is to empty or change the bags - even when they're only half full. It's not a good idea to keep the vacuum running until the bag is full because it's hard on the vacuum. If it is being used on a daily basis, then it's a good idea to get in the habit of emptying or changing the bag at the end of the day.

Be sure to train your employees on the proper use of the vacuum cleaner. Many people get lazy when vacuuming and try to suck up things that should be picked up by hand. Things like cigarette butts, straws, pieces of food or pieces of cardboard are all items that can damage a vacuum cleaner.

Another easy task that will keep your vacuums running efficiently is to clean the filters regularly. Most back pack vacuums have one or two removable filters. Depending on frequency of use, filters should be cleaned weekly. Clean filters in water and then air dry. Replace the filter in the vacuum the next day.

If you're using an upright vacuum with a beater bar, inspect the bar daily. Remove hair and carpet fibers that are wound around the bar. Also check the brushes. When brushes are at half their normal length it's time to replace them.

Check the belt for cuts and wear. Keep an extra belt on the handle of the vacuum and replace as needed. Before replacing the bottom cover, wipe it down to keep it free from soil and dust.

It's also a good idea to check the cord and plug to make sure there are no cuts, loose wires, or missing ground prongs. If so, replace the plug or cord.

And lastly, if you have a magnetic strip on the front of the vacuum, remove the staples and paper clips throughout the shift, or they'll start getting sucked up into the motor.

By following these simple tasks, you'll be able to keep your vacuum cleaners running efficiently for years to come.

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Steve Hanson helps owners of small cleaning companies build a more profitable and successful cleaning business through his online community at TheJanitorialStore.com. Read inspirational cleaning success stories at http://www.cleaning-success.com, and sign up for weekly cleaning tips at http://www.TheJanitorialStore.com.