Does pushing your vacuum cleaner feel like it’s stuck in quicksand?
I have been there before and I understand how it can be a real hassle to clean your carpets effectively when that happens.
If your Shark vacuum is hard to push on carpet, there are a few things you can do to fix it.
In this guide, you will learn:
- All the possible reasons why your Shark vacuum is hard to push on carpet
- How to fix each problem
- And more!
Shark Vacuum Hard To Push On Carpet – Overview
Shark vacuums may be hard to push on carpets due to lack of suction power, clogged brushroll, incorrect height adjustment, worn-out wheels, malfunctioning motor, or other issues like a damaged belt or blocked hose. Regular maintenance and proper use can help avoid these problems in the future.
How To Fix The Issue
Now, let’s dive into each issue and explore how to fix it. Remember, always unplug your vacuum cleaner before starting any troubleshooting!
1. Ensure Your Shark Vacuum Height Is Correct
Your Shark vacuum should have its height set correctly for your carpet type.
Generally, here is what you would do to change the height:
- Locate the height adjustment knob, lever or button: This is usually found on the vacuum head, base, or handle. It may have different labels such as “carpet height,” “floor setting,” or “pile height.”
- Identify the height settings: Shark vacuums typically have multiple height settings ranging from low (for hard floors or low-pile carpets) to high (for high-pile or plush carpets). Your vacuum may also have an auto-adjustment setting that adjusts the height automatically based on the surface.
- Consult your user manual: If you’re unsure about which height setting is best for your carpet type, check your vacuum cleaner’s user manual for recommendations. It will provide guidance on the ideal setting for different carpet types and surfaces.
- Adjust the height setting: Turn the knob or move the lever to the appropriate setting for your carpet. If you’re unsure, start with a middle setting and adjust up or down as needed.
- Test the vacuum cleaner on your carpet: Plug in your vacuum cleaner and turn it on. Gently push the vacuum across your carpet. If it’s still difficult to push or not picking up dirt effectively, adjust the height setting again.
Remember, using the correct height setting not only makes vacuuming easier but also helps protect your carpet and prolong the life of your vacuum cleaner.
2. Empty The Dust Bin
A full or overflowing dustbin can reduce suction power, diminish your Shark vacuum’s ability to pick up dirt and debris, and even cause blockages in the hose or filters.
Moreover, a full dustbin can lead to unpleasant odors and increased allergens in your home.
Ideally, you should empty the dustbin after each use.
If that is not feasible, empty your Shark vacuum dustbin at least when it gets 2/3 full (Most Shark vacuums have a Max line on the dust cup to indicate when it is time to empty it).
3. Unclog The Brush Roll
If the brushroll is clogged, follow these steps to clean it:
- Remove the vacuum head or base plate to access the brushroll.
- Carefully remove the brushroll.
- Use scissors or a brush to remove hair, string, and other debris wrapped around the brushroll.
- Clean the brushroll housing with a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or dust.
- Reinstall the brushroll, ensuring it’s correctly aligned and spins freely.
- Reattach the vacuum head or base plate and plug in your vacuum cleaner to test it.
4. Check For Clogs In The Hose
Inspect the hose for any blockages or debris that can prevent correct airflow and make your Shark vacuum hard to push on carpet.
Simply detach the hose from your vacuum and use a long object to go through the hose and remove any clogs.
5. Inspect The Wheels
The wheels on your vacuum cleaner are subject to wear and tear over time.
Worn out wheels may not roll as smoothly on your carpet, making it hard to push.
You can find replacement wheels online or at a local appliance store.
Make sure to purchase the correct type of wheels for your specific Shark vacuum model.
6. Replace The Belt
A damaged or broken belt can prevent your Shark vacuum brush roll from spinning correctly, making it difficult to use on carpets.
- Remove the vacuum head or base plate: Lay the vacuum cleaner down and locate the screws or latches that hold the vacuum head or base plate in place. Remove the screws or release the latches to access the brushroll and belt.
- Remove the brushroll: Carefully lift the brushroll out of the vacuum cleaner. This will expose the belt and make it easier to remove.
- Remove the old belt: Gently slide the old belt off the motor pulley and brushroll. If the belt is broken, carefully remove any fragments that may be lodged in the vacuum cleaner.
- Install the new belt: Place the new belt around the motor pulley and stretch it to fit around the brushroll. Ensure that the belt is properly seated.
- Reinstall the brushroll: Place the brushroll back into the vacuum cleaner, ensuring that it’s correctly aligned and spins freely with the new belt in place.
- Reattach the vacuum head or base plate: Replace the vacuum head or base plate and secure it with the screws or latches that were removed earlier.
7. Contact Customer Support
If none of the steps above helped, I advise you contact Shark customer support for further assistance.
To contact Shark vacuum support, you can visit the official Shark Customer Service website or call their Customer Service Specialists at:
- All Non-Robot Support: 1-855-427-5127
- Robot Specific Support: 1-888-228-5531
Conclusion
A Shark vacuum cleaner that is hard to push on carpet can be a real headache.
But with a little bit of troubleshooting and maintenance, you can get your vacuum cleaner working like new again.
To recap, make sure you do the following:
- Adjust your Shark vacuum height accordingly
- Empty the dust cup if it is too full
- Remove clogs from the brushroll and hose
- Replace worn out wheels
- Replace a frayed/broken belt with a new one
Contact Shark customer support if the issue still persists.
