Suction is really weak after 9mo of use. Has anyone else had this problem? Wondering if replacing the filter will fix the problem or just be a waste!
506246
Really clean the filter or replace it. We need to clean the filter at least every two weeks of use.
506247
It is a very bad vacuum, mine not only stopped picking up but started tearing up my rug
2074969
yes! I was told the "board" was a problem on these vacuums and had to replace. It is happening again now, but the unit is at least 5 years old, so . . .
1403282
I bought replacements w the vacuum but I haven't had to use them yet. Instead when I go to empty the vacuum, I also clean out the filter (I use gloves and a face mask, I def wouldn't do it without those things).Otherwise, I'd probably switch it out every month or so (I use it to vacuum my studio).
347574
I love this vacuum! After a while the filter will get clogged with dust and dirt. I have tried washing it but I don't feel it works as well as having a new filter.
1952327
It's probably a dirty filter. You can wash and dry them or buy a new ones for about $12 each (pre-canister and HEPA). Made a world of difference when I cleaned mine--wondered why it ran like doo-doo after 10 years since they're supposed to never lose suction. Apparently they aren't miracle machines--you do need to clean/replace the filters occasionally.
1470809
I seem to recall that the filter might need to be cleaned. I don't handle this, my roommate does, But I do notice it it smells from time to time. Run it for a while and check it later.
1230662
I think it has to do with the hepa filter. We have had the dc17 absolute for a year and had no suction problems until I used the vacuum to clean out ash in our fireplace. I suggest that as an experiment, when you notice the clogging or a loss of suction power, take out the hepa filter under the canister and run it for a minute to see if the unit still continues to clog. This is what I did to isolate the problem to the filter.
579900
have you had better luck with your filter? Just received mine, have hooked it up but can't get suction. Have primed it, filled the tank first, as mentioned in another post. Have not shortened the length of the tubing as yet. Any advice?
495766
You might have the external vaccum hose loose, or your floor is really really dusty. Vi've owned 5 and never had that issue. One model was with poor suction, so I ordered another
1716805
We've had ours for about a year. No issues yet, just need to change the filter.
1694081
I'm sorry, but we've only been using it for about a week. I can say that in the last week, we have had that same issue. I was hoping it was just am issue with the vacuum getting to know its surroundings, but it seems like that may not be it.
1873285
In my opinion the filter does get dirty fairly quickly...I try to use a brush and get most of the stuff off of it myself rather than replacing every couple months.
921423
i had the same problem with mine. about 6-7 months later the water delivery started to drop. i changed the filter but it did not increase. my next conclusion was a blockage of some sort. i happen to have a oil changer for my cars that works on suction. i pulled the fridge out shut off water supply removed the filter and put in the plug that came with the fridge. then i hooked up the inlet to the fridge to the oil changer. pumped it up and the pressed the water dispenser bar in front of the fridge. it sucked out some dirt and some kind of thick little globs of who knows what. put it all back together and the water flowed like it was day one. here it is 8 months later and i see i need to blow it out again. also fyi, you do not have to use the ge filters. a company called swift green filters makes one that fits. model sgf-g9 i found it for about 18.00 it is rated the same as the ge but for less money. as for the oil changer it is a mightyvac mv7400. it was about 50.00 but worth it because we have 3 cars and at 30.00 a pop for an oil change it was worth buying and it doubles for the suction for the fridge. hope this helps you.
2124371
Nothing like stating the obvious but did you allow your filter to dry out completely? That would be an important step and if your not sure try washing it thoroughly and dry at least over night to 24 hrs. I've washed mine and honestly let it dry out a few days before I attempt using it. I hope that helps.
2164391
Try pushing the prime button while the filter is running. It will help purge the excess air from the system. If it doesn't help, the company that makes the filter is really good about helping you fix any issues with the unit even if it means sending you a replacement. I had a problem with my filter leaking and they sent me another one right away. Since then I have had no issues with the filter.
194026
Honestly it seems like every time you use it the filter gathers dust and you just wipe it off with your hand *Think lint brush here*. As soon as it's clean you're done. in terms of replacing it. Hmmm who knows...seems like it should hold up for quite a long time. If not you can replace it for like $5 on their website or make your own.
986572
Suction is awesome but you have to clean the filter regularly. When the suction isn't very good that's when you will need to clean the filter. It works great on area rugs!