How to Replace a Vacuum Cleaner Belt and Save Big Money
Vacuum cleaners have one job, and most do it well. But a broken roller belt will instantly damage your vacuum and damage your roller. Instead of spending money on repairs (or a new vacuum cleaner), you can fix it yourself for less than $ 5. Here’s how.
If your vacuum cleaner suddenly sounds different and no longer picks up the things it should, look under it while it’s on and see if the brush roller is spinning. If not, you probably have a broken roller belt. You can even see the torn belt flop if you look closely enough.
Once you’ve verified that the belt is broken, replacing it will be much easier than you think. Write down your vacuum cleaner’s manufacturer and model number and search for that plus “vacuum belt” on Amazon . For under $ 5, you can usually find a replacement strap for most of the major manufacturers like Hoover, Oreck, Eureka, Bissell, and Dirt Devil. If Amazon doesn’t have your belt, go straight to the manufacturer’s website and look for replacement parts. If the manufacturer doesn’t sell directly, they will tell you where to buy it.
To install a new strap, remove the bottom plate of your vacuum cleaner. There will be 4 to 8 screws holding the plate and possibly another plate holding the roller brush. Pull out the brush and take time to clean it and remove all hair and strands.
Pull out the old belt and install a new one by first wrapping it around the spindle attached to the motor and then rewinding it around the end of the roller brush. It should be snug, but not too tight to prevent the belt from rotating.
Replace the bottom plate and turn on the vacuum cleaner. Hopefully the belt starts spinning and you are back to work with the satisfaction of saving some money and fixing it yourself.